Functionalized edible films and coatings

Abstract

Pests and inadequate post-harvest handling has led to losses in horticultural products, therefore the development and production of edible biodegradable films has been sought as an alternative in recent years. These edible films are made with materials such as carbohydrates, proteins, or lipids, with physical and mechanical characteristics similar to the non-degradable packaging, but with the advantage of having a bioactive function as barriers; by adding vegetable extracts, edible biodegradable films may exert antimicrobial activity, protection against UV and visible light, against carriers of antioxidants and/or dyes, along with improving the visual characteristics of the product. Because of these attributes, edible biodegradable films have been referred to as “Intelligent films”, since considerable progress has been observed in their elaboration, such as the presence of colorful sensors capable of detecting chemical changes and the presence of microorganisms in foods, revealing the state in which they are optimal and even if they are or not in an adequate state for consumption. The objective of this work is to make a summary of various research and current trends in the study and development of edible films and coatings, emphasizing their application in the horticultural chain and their effect on fresh and minimally processed foods.