Biodegradable and smart packaging films for food quality and safety: A review

Growing concerns over single-use plastic (SUP) waste, regulatory restrictions on non-recyclable materials, and the need for environmentally responsible solutions are accelerating the shift toward sustainable food packaging systems. Within the SUP category, packaging contributes approximately 40 % of the global plastic waste burden, underscoring the urgent demand for bio-based, biodegradable alternatives. In this context, biodegradable and smart packaging films have gained considerable attention for their potential to reduce plastic pollution, extend the shelf life of perishable products, and preserve food safety and nutritional quality. This review provides an in-depth overview of recent innovations in biodegradable films developed from renewable resources such as polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, polyesters, and microbial polymers. It focuses on their functional, mechanical, and barrier properties, as well as their integration into active and intelligent food packaging systems. Key fabrication techniques, such as casting, extrusion, and coating are discussed in relation to enhancing film performance. Recent advances in nanocomposites and multilayer systems are highlighted for their ability to overcome moisture sensitivity and gas barrier limitations. Furthermore, the incorporation of active agents and smart indicators has facilitated the development of intelligent packaging capable of real-time food quality monitoring. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is also emphasized as a synergistic approach, where biodegradable films function alongside gas control and spoilage detection mechanisms to effectively extend product shelf life. The review also considers regulatory, safety, and end-of-life factors, and outlines strategies for scalable, sustainable implementation in the food packaging industry.