Active and Intelligent Biopolymer-Based Food Packaging Films: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Biopolymer-based biomaterials are at the forefront of sustainable food packaging research, answering growing demands for eco-friendly, safe, and multifunctional materials. These advanced biomaterials leverage the inherent properties of biopolymers to create active and intelligent packaging films capable of extending food shelf-life and improving safety. Recent progress in molecular biosciences and materials chemistry has revealed how the molecular structure and interactions within biopolymer-based films govern their performance, yet key challenges remain. Notably, a deeper understanding is needed of the incorporation, stabilization, and performance of active agents, such as antioxidants and antimicrobials, as well as the design of responsive sensing elements. Mechanisms driving encapsulation, controlled release, and smart responsiveness at the biomolecular level continue to be subjects of intense investigation, central to achieving reliable and high-performing packaging materials.

Advances in analytical methods and biomaterials science have enabled researchers to study structure–function relationships and the interface between biopolymer-based films, food matrices, and microorganisms. The emergence of intelligent packaging, featuring real-time indicators for freshness or spoilage, underscores the importance of molecularly engineered biomaterials capable of specific response to environmental or biological triggers. Despite encouraging progress, there is a need to unify fundamental insights from molecular design with practical applications in packaging efficacy, sustainability, and scalability.

This Research Topic aims to consolidate mechanistically driven advances in biopolymer-based biomaterials for active and intelligent food packaging. The primary objective is to clarify how the molecular architecture and additive integration in these films can be harnessed for improved functional performance and real-time food quality monitoring.

The scope of this Research Topic centers on biopolymer biomaterials, their molecular mechanisms, and their functional integration in food packaging. Research should focus on materials and approaches relevant to food preservation, safety, and intelligent functionality. To gather further insights in this area, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
o Molecular design and engineering of packaging biomaterials
o Encapsulation, stabilization, and release of active agents
o Functional properties for antioxidant and antimicrobial activity
o Responsive indicators for food quality and safety
o Biopolymer–food and biopolymer–microorganism interactions
o Structure–function relationships and advanced characterization