Authors Campos, C.A.; Gerschenson, L.N.; Flores, S.K.
ilms and coatings made from biopolymers include polysaccharides, proteins, and their blends. These materials present the possibility of being carriers of different additives, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, nutraceutical, and flavorings agents. In particular, the use of edible films and coatings containing antimicrobials has been demonstrated to be a useful tool as a stress factor to protect foodstuff against spoilage flora and to decrease the risk of pathogen growth. effectiveness against the target microorganism and the possible interactions among the antimicrobial, the film-forming biopolymer, and other food components present. These interactions can modify the antimicrobial activity and the characteristics of the film being these key factors for the development of antimicrobial films and coatings, research of hydrocolloids and antimicrobials used for developing edible films and coatings, Packaging materials protect food from surrounding challenges. Changes in industrial procedures like the introduction of combined techniques for the obtention of medium- and high-moisture food products, the research on the application of emergent stress factors like high pressures, the development of convenient food products with longer shelf life, and the changing in retailing practices and/or in way of life have promoted the development of new and/or improved packaging materials. Consumer demands for more natural foods, and also for environmental protection, edible coatings and films do not pretend to replace traditional packaging materials but to provide an additional stress factor to be applied for food preservation, also help to reduce the cost and also the amount of traditional packaging used. They can control moisture, gases, and lipid migration and can be supporters of additives and nutrients. For their formulation, there can be used polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids and they must result neutral with respect to color and flavor. An important component is the plasticizer which enhances flexibility and extensibility. Edible films are intended to lengthen shelf life and also to respond to consumer demand for even more natural products and for the lower contamination of the environment, active packaging, It is important to remark that film forming conditions and film composition affect additive migration and, as a consequence, its effectiveness.
