Advancements and the Prospects of Biodegradable Films Fabricated with Biological Macromolecules for Sustainable Food Packaging through Scientometric Analysis: A Review

Food preservation and spoilage reduction are basic components of modern food systems. Plastic packing films have been used for a long time to achieve these goals. However, their rampant use has caused extreme environmental hazards. Biodegradable packaging films, an available solution to the latter problem, are bio-based and renewable. They offer long-term preservation of food with the least unfavorable environmental impacts. They are expected to be optimized for various uses, and their overall performance will be consolidated in terms of mechanical, barrier, and optical qualities. Alongside, the presence of nanoparticles and natural extracts from plant sources can increase the functional ability of these films in aspects such as greater food preservation. Taking into account polymer blending and nanoparticle incorporation along with bioactive compounds, this review focuses on the benefits of biodegradable films for packaging and inquires into packaging solutions that satisfy the needs of the food industry with environmental concerns.