Emerging challenges on viability and commercialization of lignin in biobased polymers for food packaging: A review

The challenge to enhance the properties and functionalities of biobased polymers for food packaging without compromising biodegradability has brought the incorporation of different compounds derived from natural resources. Lignin, an abundant waste from the paper and pulp industry has earned attention to explore and transform into useful, high-value products because of its inherent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and UV-blocking properties. This paper reviewed the effects of incorporation of lignin into biobased polymers potential for active packaging applications. Changes in the mechanical, barrier, and thermal properties of biobased polymers as a result of the incorporation of lignin are also highlighted. However, the main obstacle to exploiting the beneficial effects of lignin lies in its heterogeneous and complex molecular structure. Nevertheless, there is an increasing research interest on the beneficial uses of lignin for the commercialization of biobased polymers that could have an impact on the reduction of wastes from food packaging materials. • Properties of lignin for active packaging. • Lignin for enhancing packaging material properties. • Compatibility of lignin to biobased polymers for food packaging. • Lignin offers opportunities in a circular economy.