Starch, pectin and chitosan-based bioplastics with silver nanoparticles: An eco-friendly alternative for the food industry

Abstract

Pollution from non-degradable materials is currently a socio-environmental obstacle that afflicts the world. In response to this, the development of bioplastics has become an interesting option to replace the use of synthetic materials in various industries, including the food industry. Bioplastics are developed based on biodegradable materials, such as polysaccharides, proteins and their derivatives. The decision was made to create films with pectin and starch in a chitosan matrix, aiming at their gelling and thickening properties. Finally, in addition to focusing the research on the production of biodegradable bioplastics, the article also seeks to address the study of silver nanoparticles, whose antimicrobial action allows their use in the food industry. This article will describe the production of bioplastics based on these biopolymers and silver nanoparticles and their potential applications in the food sector as a replacement for conventional plastics, such as PVC films. Thus, the research article proposes the development of highly efficient bioplastics that not only eliminate potential health and environmental risks but also offer a hopeful solution to this urgent issue.