A Review of Starch‐Based Bioplastics From Plant and Agro‐Based Sources: Extraction, Characterization, and Applications

ABSTRACT The persistence of nonbiodegradable petrochemical plastics, which can endure for centuries, poses ecological challenges. Their accumulation and toxic emissions during disposal contribute to plastic pollution, an escalating environmental and public health concern. Starch‐based bioplastics are promising because they are low‐cost, recyclable, and available from plant sources and agricultural waste, including potato, corn, rice, wheat, cassava, banana peel, jackfruit seed, mango seed, avocado seed, and lucuma seed. Bioplastics are a sustainable alternative. This study shows the methods for extracting starch from various feedstocks and examines the roles of starch gelatinization and plasticization in film development. The impact of common plasticizers (particularly sorbitol and glycerol) and natural, organic, and inorganic fillers is examined in relation to structure‐property trade‐offs. Natural extracts, essential oils, and other bioactive components can modify mechanical, barrier, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of starch‐based films. Surface morphology, structural, functional, mechanical, and thermal characterizations are frequently used for bioplastic analysis. The strength and decomposition of the composites were confirmed by mechanical and soil biodegradation tests, and the composites regularly improved performance. Starch‐based bioplastics can substitute petrochemical‐based plastics, reducing environmental issues.