Abstract

A large number of both biopolymers and synthetic polymers have been used as food coating packaging materials. In this manuscript, properties and applications of synthetic polymers and biopolymers with a particular attention on biopolymers for food coating and packaging were reviewed. The properties and applications of biopolymers were compared with synthetic polymers. Synthetic polymers are thermoplastic and have a high potential to process them for making different shapes of packaging for foods and drinks. Most synthetic polymers show excellent water vapor barriers compared with biopolymers. On the other hand, biopolymers are safe materials respecting environmentally concerns. Biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxic, green and renewable resources make biopolymers as excellent candidates for food coating and packaging. However, the use of biopolymers in food coating and packaging is limited, because of their hydrophilic characters, poor process abilities, high water vapor permeability, and limited mechanical properties. Most biopolymers are edible, thus biopolymer-based materials as coatings and packaging materials can be eaten with foods.

Keywords: Biopolymers; Synthetic polymers; Properties; Food Packaging.