Valorization of food waste for the production of biodegradable packaging material

With the escalating global concerns surrounding plastic pollution and the unsustainable disposal of food waste, there is a growing demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable alternatives in the packaging sector. One promising approach lies in the valorization of fruit and vegetable waste to extract high-value biopolymers such as pectin, cellulose, and starch. These naturally derived polymers offer a sustainable foundation for the development of biodegradable packaging materials. This review critically examines recent advancements in the recovery and utilization of biopolymers—particularly focusing on pectin-cellulose composites—from food waste sources. Special emphasis is placed on the synthesis of nano-biocomposites and their structural, mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties relevant to food packaging applications. Furthermore, the review explores environmental impact assessments, including life cycle analysis (LCA), biodegradability studies, and the role of these materials in supporting circular bioeconomy frameworks. By consolidating recent research trends and technological innovations, this study highlights both the potential and practical challenges of transforming food waste into high-performance, sustainable packaging solutions.