Insights
Recent Advances in Natural Fibre-Based Materials for Food Packaging Applications
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This review article surveys the state of natural-fibre-based materials for food packaging, discussing their sources, fibre treatments, composite processing methods and performance characteristics (mechanical strength, barrier functions). It frames these biomaterials as promising alternatives to fossil-derived plastics yet acknowledges the barriers to scaling for packaging applications
Pulikkalparambil et al. (2023) presents a comprehensive review of natural-fibre-based materials (including hemp, jute, banana, flax, ramie and bamboo) as reinforcement or filler in packaging composites, particularly food packaging applications.
The first section of the paper explores fibre source and composition (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin content), and selection parameters—such as fibre morphology, mechanical properties and thermal stability—critical to packaging performance. The authors then discuss physical and chemical modifications of fibres, including alkali treatment, silane coupling, bleaching, plasma treatments and compatibilization with polymer matrices; such modifications improve interfacial bonding, water resistance and dimensional stability.
The next part covers composite processing techniques (e.g., melt mixing, hot pressing, extrusion) and highlights that natural-fibre composites often achieve competitive mechanical strength and modulus compared to certain plastic composites, while bringing sustainability benefits (renewability, biodegradability, lower embodied energy).
Nonetheless, the review emphasizes significant challenges: variability in natural-fibre quality, moisture uptake and dimensional instability, lower thermal degradation thresholds (limiting high-temperature applications), and compatibility issues with polymer matrices.
Regarding packaging application, key performance requirements—such as gas/oxygen barrier, moisture barrier, printability and regulatory compliance for food contact—remain higher hurdles for natural-fibre systems compared to conventional plastics.
The authors note that while natural-fibre composites show good promise in structural packaging (rigid trays, inserts, cushioning), they are less mature in cold-chain insulation or active barrier packaging. They call for more research on hybrid systems (natural-fibre + bio-polymer), scalable manufacturing, life-cycle assessment (LCA) comparisons and end-of-life scenarios (composting, recycling).
This review suggests that while natural-fibre solutions are advancing, specifics of thermal insulation, moisture control and logistics chain robustness still require further development before full replacement of EPS/PU foam becomes viable.