ABSTRACT
The demand of consumers for food with natural quality, safety and extended shelf life paved the way for the development of nanotechnology-based innovations. Currently, most of the research is focused on the development of nanomaterials-incorporated functional systems. The major drawbacks associated with polymer-based packaging can be overcome by the use of nanotechnology-based approaches. These innovations can improve the barrier, thermal, mechanical and antimicrobial properties of the packaging systems. Several nanomaterials such as silver, zinc-oxide, copper, clay, silicon, titanium, magnesium etc., are gaining much interest in this field. This chapter provides an overview of the recent progress in various nanostructured polymer films that are used as active and intelligent food packaging systems, its safety concerns and future perspectives.
