Environmentally Compatible Food Packaging

Food packaging performs an essential function, but packaging materials can have a negative impact on the environment. This collection reviews bio-based, biodegradable and recycled materials and their current and potential applications for food protection and preservation. Beginning with an examination of the latest advances in bio-based food packaging materials, this book discusses the factors involved in choosing alternative packaging materials such as consumer preference, measuring the environmental performance of food packaging, eco-design, and the safety and quality of recycled materials. It examines applications of environmentally-compatible materials in particular product sectors, including the packaging of fresh horticultural produce, dairy products and seafood. The text also covers active packaging, modified atmosphere packaging, and biobased intelligent food packaging and concludes with a summary of the legislation and certification of environmentally-compatible packaging in the EU. With its distinguished editor and contributors, Environmentally-compatible food packaging will be a valuable reference tool for professionals in the food processing and packaging industries.