An experimental view - Development of Smart Plant-Based Bioplastics Reinforced with Nanocellulose and Natural Plant Extracts for Sustainable Food Packaging

Abstract

Sustainable food packaging materials are desperately needed due to the growing amount of plastic waste derived from petroleum. In order to improve their mechanical, barrier, antibacterial, and antioxidant qualities, this research attempts to create intelligent plant-based bioplastic films supplemented with nanocellulose and natural plant extracts. Plant extracts like neem, tulsi, and clove were added to starch-based bioplastic sheets that contained glycerol as a plasticizer and were reinforced with nanocellulose. The produced films were assessed for their efficacy in food packaging applications as well as their physicochemical, mechanical, biodegradation, and antibacterial qualities. The findings show that while natural plant extracts increased antibacterial activity and prolonged the shelf life of packaged foods, nanocellulose enhanced film strength and stability. These intelligent bioplastic films promote sustainable food preservation and the ideas of a circular bioeconomy by providing a biodegradable and environmentally friendly substitute for traditional plastic packaging.