Biodegradable packaging, such as edible coatings and films, is widely used because it is free
from synthetic substances and does not lead to environment pollution. Therefore, this industry
is continuously growing. This study aimed to prepare and characterize biodegradable films
loaded with nano kaolin. Semolina protein films were prepared and plasticized with sorbitol/
glycerol by the casting method. Nano kaolin with 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5% (w/w) was
added to the films before casting them. The films were dried at controlled conditions. The effects
of the addition of nanoparticles were measured on water absorption capacity (WAC), density,
ultraviolet transmittance, heat sealability, and film morphology. Results showed that the WAC
and density of the films decreased by increasing the nano kaolin concentration. By contrast, the
seal strength for the semolina film was increased by incorporating a low percentage of nano
kaolin. The X-ray diffraction curves of the semolina film incorporated with kaolin exhibited
broad reflection, thus indicating that the kaolin nanosize matches the transmission electron
microscopy images. In summary, nano kaolin incorporation enhanced the physicochemical
properties and heat sealability of semolina films, thereby indicating the potential application of
these bionanocomposites to food-product packaging.
The growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly food packaging has prompted research on innovative solutions to environmental and consumer health issues. To enhance the properties of smart packaging, the incorporation of bioactive compounds derived from various natural sources has attracted considerable interest because of their functional properties, including antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. However, extracting these compounds from natural sources poses challenges because of their complex chemical structures and low concentrations. Traditional extraction methods are often environmentally harmful, expensive and time-consuming. Thus, green extraction techniques have emerged as promising alternatives, offering sustainable and eco-friendly approaches that minimise the use of hazardous solvents and reduce environmental impact. This review explores cutting-edge research on the green extraction of bioactive compounds and their incorporation into smart packaging systems in the last 10 years. Then, an overview of bioactive compounds, green extraction techniques, integrated techniques, green extraction solvents and their application in smart packaging was provided, and the impact of bioactive compounds incorporated in smart packaging on the shelf lives of food products was explored. Furthermore, it highlights the challenges and opportunities within this field and presents recommendations for future research, aiming to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and efficient smart packaging solutions.