Biopolymer-based nanocomposites for active and intelligent meat packaging: a review of synergistic mechanisms and multifunctional performance

Abstract Meat products are highly susceptible to quality deterioration during storage and transportation due to microbial proliferation and oxidative reactions. Meanwhile, the environmental impact of conventional plastic packaging has created an urgent need for the industry to transition toward sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives. Bioactive nanocomposite packaging has emerged as a promising alternative, combining biopolymers, natural antimicrobials/antioxidants, and nanotechnology to improve material performance and enable controlled release of active compounds. These systems can also incorporate pH-responsive indicators for real-time freshness monitoring. This review summarizes recent advances in biopolymers, natural bioactives, and nanotechnology for meat packaging, with emphasis on synergistic mechanisms and multifunctional performance. Future research should focus on scaling up these technologies to bridge the gap between lab innovation and industrial applications.