A review of cellulose and its derivatives in biopolymer-based for food packaging application

Background: Food packaging is a globally relevant and widely used technique for food preservation. Natural, biodegradable, and bioavailable polymers are gaining popularity in the field of food packaging. Cellulose and its derivatives are amongst the most abundant and widely used polymers in the packaging industry. There are many natural sources for cellulose, and they can also be obtained from bio-wastes and agricultural wastes. Thus, it is available in large quality and is cost effective. Scope and approach: In this review, we discussed the importance, functioning, properties, and characteristics of cellulose and its derivatives for food packaging. The application of cellulose in food packaging from the discovery of cellulose in 1839-2020 was introduced in this article. Which includes its use for the preservation of fruits and vegetables is discussed in detail, and its application as carrier of various natural antibacterial and antioxidant compounds was introduced. Various types of composite films prepared using cellulose and its derivatives are also discussed in this review. Furthermore, numerous functional properties of cellulose have been mentioned. Key findings and conclusion: Cellulose is one of the most important polymers in the food industry. This study explores its properties and its encapsulations and stabilization of compounds without altering their properties. Through extensive study of existing literature on the subject, this review compiles the information relevant to the use of cellulose in food preservation. In addition, various future considerations are further presented.

Automated summary

Food packaging is a globally relevant and widely used technique for food preservation, with natural, biodegradable, and bioavailable polymers like cellulose gaining popularity. This review discusses the importance and characteristics of cellulose for food packaging, including its use for preserving fruits and vegetables and as a carrier for natural antibacterial and antioxidant compounds. Various types of composite films using cellulose and its derivatives are also highlighted, showcasing the functional properties of cellulose in the food industry.