Bioactive alginate and carrageenan nanocomposite packaging: a review of recent insights on fabrication techniques, applications and environmental concerns

Polysaccharide-based bioactive films from alginate and carrageenan are gaining interest in food packaging, biomedical applications, and environmental sustainability. From the past decade, film/coating improvements have been talking of the town through different research modifications. Approaches such as modifying the polymer matrix along with the addition of different plants and animal-based additives have been explored in the area concerned to enhance film performance. Developing films by the addition of nanocomposites based on alginate and carrageenan presents a unique and robust method towards enhancing the functional and techno-functional characteristics of packaging film/coatings credited to the synergistic combination of natural polymer matrices and incorporated nanomaterials. There are some studies discussing the usage of these polymers in the packaging industry. However, our study adds on the approach by discussing the development of films/coatings using the alginate and carrageenan blend. This review paper delves into the recent advancements and applications of polysaccharide-based bioactive films, focusing specifically on alginate and carrageenan. It covers the diverse applications of these polymers in the development of nanocomposites for antimicrobial packaging. This study systematically examines antimicrobial agents derived from fruit byproducts, animal sources, and probiotic agents, and their integration into packaging materials. The paper examines the characteristics of antimicrobial packaging systems, focusing on their barrier and mechanical properties. Various techniques for the development and fabrication of these films are discussed, highlighting the role of different polysaccharides in film formation. The properties of the developed films are analyzed, particularly their antimicrobial mechanisms of action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The possible uses of these bioactive films in food packaging are described, particularly for fruits and vegetables, meat and meat products, and dairy products. This study highlights the significant potential of alginate and carrageenan-based bioactive films, along with the blends thereof enhanced with nano-sized particles, to boost food safety, food quality and extend the shelf life of perishable products. Lastly the manuscript also focuses on safety regulations towards the food packaging films/coatings developed from these polymers for their wider applications.