ABSTRACT
The application of biopolymer as a replacement for synthetic polymer has gained more attention in food packaging. Biopolymer based on cellulose, starch, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polylactic acid (PLA), protein, and lipid are considered as good alternatives to petroleum-based plastics due to their availability and biodegradability. The bio-based film has enormous potential as a food packaging material to reduce environmental concerns. However, several industrial challenges need to be overcome to increase application of biopolymer in food packaging. The physical properties of biopolymer are affected by many preparation techniques, such as solvent casting method, extrusion, and foaming techniques. The functional properties of the bio-based film can be extended or improved by novel preparation techniques, like electrospinning, 3D printing, reactive extrusion, and multilayer coating techniques. Moreover, the commercial-scale production of high-performance biopolymer is still a challenge, and more research is required to standardize the process parameter in preparation techniques. This chapter discusses the traditional and recent techniques for biopolymer preparation methods and also summarizes the regulatory aspects for application in food packaging.
