Advances in PLA/PBAT-based blend film in food packaging applications: A review

There is a growing interest in biodegradable plastic, and in this regard, polylactic acid (PLA) and poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) have received a lot of attention. Both PLA and PBAT are polyester-type polymers, commonly known as bioplastics in the packaging field. PLA and PBAT have good mechanical strength and flexibility, respectively. PLA-based film has low flexibility, while PBAT lacks strength; thus, blending PLA and PBAT could be advantageous in overcoming the limitations of the unblended counterparts. Moreover, including functional filler, additives and bioactive ingredient are useful to further enhance the physical and functional properties of the packaging film. The PLA/PBAT blend film can be effective in extending the shelf life of fresh produce and also processed food. This review discusses the recent progress in PLA and PBAT based functional composite film for food packaging applications. The importance of PLA and PBAT in sustainable packaging development is discussed. After briefly discussing the methods for formation of PLA/PBAT blend film the key properties are described. The application of the PLA/PBAT-based film in real-time food preservation is described at the end. Finally, the challenges associated with the PLA-PBAT in making sustainable packaging as an alternative to non-biodegradable packaging are also addressed. • PLA/PBAT-blend films are biodegradable and suitable for active food packaging application. • The physical and functional properties of PLA/PBAT-based films can be tuned by adding fillers. • PLA/PBAT-based packaging have potential in improving the shelf life of fresh produce and processed food.