Evaluation of the Influence of Various Biodegradable Packaging Materials on the Quality and Shelf Life of Different Food Products

The aim of the present research was to summarize the results of investigations carried out on the influence of different biodegradable polymer packaging materials on the shelf life and quality of several food products during storage. In Latvia, most of consumers consider that polymers as a material for food packaging are overly used, and they support the idea of introducing new eco-friendly food packaging. Biodegradable films were investigated for their ability to extend the shelf life of apple salad and minimally processed shredded carrots stored at 4 °C. It was found that they can guaranty the same as or even a longer shelf life than that provided by conventional polymer films. Bio PLA transparent films, thermoformed PLA containers, and cellulose-based films were tested for fresh produce packaging. Ceramis®-PLA-SiOx barrier coated films were tested for their influence on the quality of food products - rye bread, apple-black currant marmalade candies, and soft cheese Kleo - during storage. PLA and PHB films showed satisfactory results for packaging of perishable foods - salad with meat in mayonnaise. Ceramis®-PLA-SiOx films were used for vacuum packaging and also for mild thermal treatment (Sous vide) of soft cheese, providing its prolonged shelf life. Some BoPLA films specially envisaged for packaging of confectionery were tested for milk pomade sweet - sherbet - packaging. Its quality was evaluated mainly by moisture content and by changes in hardness during storage. The results suggest that biodegradable packaging materials can be a successful alternative to the conventional polymers for packaging of several food products, which could provide an essential contribution in reducing the environmental pollution.