Advances in bio-based smart food packaging for enhanced food safety

The increasing environmental concerns surrounding conventional plastic packaging and the demand for higher food safety and quality have led to a surge in the development of bio-based smart food packaging. These novel packaging materials are featured with renewability and biodegradability, and at the same time, possess active and intelligent functionalities to enable extended food shelf life. Despite numerous advances, challenges remain in the feasibility of industrial production. This review examines the current state of bio-based smart food packaging, focusing on the most used raw materials and fabrication methods and their unique functionalities. Special attention is given to innovative production techniques like 3D printing and electrospinning, exploring their potential scalability and enhanced properties. This review also delves into the key applications of bio-based smart packaging materials in pH/gas, temperature, humidity, enzyme-responsive systems, and their multi-responsive capabilities. Significant progress has been made in developing bio-based smart packaging materials that can respond to environmental stimuli. Particularly, pH- and gas-responsive packaging offers promising solutions for food spoilage detection. However, the commercial applications of novel packaging materials and production techniques need to be promoted by considering the cost, the scalability, the potential benefits, and the regulations. • Advances in bio-based smart packaging address sustainability and food safety. • Stimuli-responsive systems react to pH, gas, temperature, and humidity changes. • 3D printing and electrospinning enable advanced fabrication. • Biopolymers such as PLA, PHB, cellulose, and starch are highlighted. • Multi-responsive systems and cost-effective innovations are key future directions.