The principles of employing antimicrobial compounds in active packaging: Mechanisms, applications, and future directions

• Innovative antimicrobial packaging reduces spoilage, and boosts safety. • Natural, synthetic blends with nanotech and electrospinning transform packaging. • Biobased packaging cuts additives, food waste, and tackles environmental issues. • Antibacterial methods like cell disruption and slow release improve microbe control. • Limits in migration, rules, and acceptance show need for future innovation. Antimicrobial packaging represents an innovative approach to enhancing food safety, extending shelf life, and promoting sustainability by actively inhibiting microbial spoilage. This review elucidates the integration of natural and synthetic antimicrobial agents, such as silver nanoparticles, essential oils, and bacteriophages, into polymeric matrices like polyethylene, polypropylene, and biobased materials (e.g., chitosan and poly(s-lysine)) through advanced techniques including casting, coating, electrospinning, and nanotechnology-enabled embedding. These systems leverage mechanisms like cell wall disruption, membrane permeabilization, and controlled release kinetics to target pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella , and Listeria monocytogenes , thereby reducing reliance on chemical preservatives. The manuscript explores the compatibility challenges of antimicrobial agents with packaging materials, emphasizing the need for optimized diffusion rates and surface energy modifications to ensure consistent efficacy. Regulatory considerations and consumer acceptance issues, including skepticism about nanomaterial safety, are critically evaluated. The discussion highlights the potential of biobased active packaging systems, such as those incorporating plant-derived compounds, to address environmental concerns associated with conventional plastics while maintaining organoleptic properties. Future directions focus on harmonizing global regulatory frameworks, enhancing consumer education, and developing scalable, ecofriendly antimicrobial packaging solutions to revolutionize food preservation and support a sustainable food system.