Effects of Different TiO2 Nanoparticles Concentrations on the Physical and Antibacterial Activities of Chitosan-Based Coating Film

Antimicrobial Packaging for Plum Tomatoes Based on ZnO Modified Low-Density Polyethylene

Food safety and quality are major concerns in the food industry. Despite numerous studies, polyethylene remains one of the most used materials for packaging due to industry reluctance to invest in new technologies and equipment. Therefore, modifications to the current materials are easier to implement than adopting whole new solutions. Antibacterial activity can be induced in low-density polyethylene films only by adding antimicrobial agents. ZnO nanoparticles are well known for their strong antimicrobial activity, coupled with low toxicity and UV shielding capability. These characteristics recommend ZnO for the food industry. By incorporating such safe and dependable antimicrobial agents in the polyethylene matrix, we have obtained composite films able to inhibit microorganisms' growth that can be used as packaging materials. Here we report the obtaining of highly homogenous composite films with up to 5% ZnO by a melt mixing process at 150 °C for 10 min. The composite films present good transparency in the visible domain, permitting consumers to visualize the food, but have good UV barrier properties. The composite films exhibit good antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity from the lowest ZnO composition (1%), against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The homogenous dispersion of ZnO nanoparticles into the polyethylene matrix was assessed by Fourier transform infrared microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The optimal mechanical barrier properties were obtained for composition with 3% ZnO. The thermal analysis indicates that the addition of ZnO nanoparticles has increased thermal stability by more than 100 °C. The UV-Vis spectra indicate a low transmittance in the UV domain, lower than 5%, making the films suitable for blocking photo-oxidation processes. The obtained films proved to be efficient packaging films, successfully preserving plum (Rome) tomatoes for up to 14 days.

Corrosion Rate and Mechanism of Degradation of Chitosan/TiO2 Coatings Deposited on MgZnCa Alloy in Hank's Solution

Overly fast corrosion degradation of biodegradable magnesium alloys has been a major problem over the last several years. The development of protective coatings by using biocompatible, biodegradable, and non-toxic material such as chitosan ensures a reduction in the rate of corrosion of Mg alloys in simulated body fluids. In this study, chitosan/TiO2 nanocomposite coating was used for the first time to hinder the corrosion rate of Mg19Zn1Ca alloy in Hank's solution. The main goal of this research is to investigate and explain the corrosion degradation mechanism of Mg19Zn1Ca alloy coated by nanocomposite chitosan-based coating. The chemical composition, structural analyses, and corrosion tests were used to evaluate the protective properties of the chitosan/TiO2 coating deposited on the Mg19Zn1Ca substrate. The chitosan/TiO2 coating slows down the corrosion rate of the magnesium alloy by more than threefold (3.6 times). The interaction of TiO2 (NPs) with the hydroxy and amine groups present in the chitosan molecule cause their uniform distribution in the chitosan matrix. The chitosan/TiO2 coating limits the contact of the substrate with Hank's solution.

Accelerative effects of alginate-chitosan/titanium oxide@geraniol nanosphere hydrogels on the healing process of wounds infected with Acinetobacter baumannii and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of alginate-chitosan/titanium oxide/geraniol (Alg-Csn/TiO2@GRL nanosphere) nanospheres hydrogels on the healing process of the wounds infected with Acinetobacter baumannii and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. The nanospheres were successfully synthesized and their physicochemical properties such as DLS, FTIR, FE-SEM, TEM, XRD and also their safety and in-vitro antibacterial activity were assessed and confirmed. Following induction of the infected wounds, the mice were treated with s base ointment (Control), mupirocin® as standard control group and also hydrogels prepared from Alg-Csn@GRL, Alg-Csn/TiO2 and Alg-Csn/TiO2@GRL. Wound contraction, total bacterial count, expression of bFGF, VEGF, IGF-1, CD68 and COL-1 A, iNOS and eNOS were measured. The results showed the treatment of wounds with Alg-Csn/TiO2@GRL hydrogels significantly accelerated wound contraction, decreased total bacterial count and reduced the expressions of CD68, iNOS and eNOS and increased the expressions of VEGF, bFGF, IGF-1 and COL-1 A compared with other groups. It can be concluded that Alg-Csn/TiO2@GRL hydrogels expedite the wound healing process by their effects on bacteria and subsequently inflammation and increasing the expression of proliferative genes. The Alg-Csn/TiO2@GRL hydrogel can be utilized in combination with other agents for the treatment of infected wounds after future clinical studies.

Chitosan biopolymer functionalized with graphene oxide and titanium dioxide with Escin metallic nanocomposites for anticancer potential against colon cancer

Our study produced GO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites (GTCEnc), characterized them using physical and biological methods, and evaluated their potential as cancer treatment candidates. Standard protocols were used to produce GTCEnc. Nanocomposites are created using XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis, and PL spectroscopy analysis. The morphology and ultrastructure of nanocomposites were investigated using SEM and TEM. Nanocomposites containing TiO2, GO, chitosan, and escin nanostructures were characterized using diffraction, microscopy, and spectroscopy; the antimicrobial activity of GTCEnc was investigated. Various methods were used to test the anticancer activity of GTCEnc against COLO 205 cell lines, including MTT, EtBr/AO, DAPI, JC-1, Annexin-V/FITC, cell cycle analysis, and activation of pro-apoptotic markers, such as caspase-3, -8, and -9. The nanocomposites were cytotoxic to COLO 205 cells, with an IC50 of 22.68 μg/mL, but not to 293T cells. In cells treated with nanomaterials, cytotoxicity, nuclear damage, apoptosis induction, and free radical production were significantly increased. Our finding suggests that GTCEnc has potent anticancer and antibacterial activity in vitro because of its unique nanocomposite properties and antibacterial and anticancer activity in vitro. Additional research is required to understand the clinical efficacy of these nanocomposites.

TiO2 loaded on glycidol functionalized poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) nanobiocomposite film for photocatalytic and antibacterial activities

The rapid acceleration of industrialization and urbanization has exacerbated water pollution, which is primarily caused by the presence of highly toxic, non-biodegradable contaminants in industrial waste and effluents. In response to this urgent issue, a novel nanobiocomposite film with titanium dioxide (TiO2) loaded onto a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-18 mol% 3-hydroxyhexanoate) (18PHBH) matrix was developed to serve as an effective dual-function material with photocatalytic and antibacterial properties. Through Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR), Diffuse reflectance ultraviolet-visible (DRUV-Vis), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, the physicochemical properties of the TiO2/Gly/18PHBH nanobiocomposite film were exhaustively characterized, revealing effective TiO2 loading and uniform distribution on the film's surface. The film exhibited extraordinary photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye, with the 5TiO2/Gly/18PHBH film demonstrating the greatest efficiency. In addition, antibacterial testing revealed that the film was effective against 99.8 % of Staphylococcus aureus and 96.9 % of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These results demonstrate the potential of polyhydroxyalkanoate-based films as exceptional nanoparticle matrices and position the 5TiO2/Gly/18PHBH film as a versatile candidate for applications in photocatalysis and antibacterial interventions, providing innovative solutions to critical environmental challenges.

Roles of polysaccharides-based nanomaterials in food preservation and extension of shelf-life of food products: A review

In food production sectors, food spoilage and contamination are major issues that threaten and negatively influence food standards and safety. Several physical, chemical, and biological methods are used to extend the shelf-life of food products, but they have their limitations. Henceforth, researchers and scientists resort to novel methods to resolve these existing issues. Nanomaterials-based extension of food shelf life has broad scope rendering a broad spectrum of activity including high antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Numerous research investigations have been made to identify the possible roles of nanoparticles in food preservation. A wide range of nanomaterials via different approaches is ultimately applied for food preservation. Among them, chemically synthesized methods have several limitations, unlike biological synthesis. However, biological synthesis protocols are quite expensive and laborious. Predominant studies demonstrated that nanoparticles can protect fruits and vegetables by preventing microbial contamination. Though several nanomaterials designated for food preservation are available, detailed knowledge of the mechanism remains unclear. Hence, this review aims to highlight the various nanomaterials and their roles in increasing the shelf life of food products. Adding to the novel market trends, nano-packaging will open new frontiers and prospects for ensuring food safety and quality.

Evaluation of chitosan-Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite for the enhancement of shelf life of chili and banana fruits

Post-harvest losses of fruits and vegetables account for a large share of food waste in the world due to improper handling and packaging. By using the sol-gel method, Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite was prepared in this study from micro-sized commercial TiO2 powder and incorporated in a chitosan-cellulose matrix for the purpose of promising food packaging. The particle size and distribution of Ag nanoparticles (9.2437 nm size) confirmed their successful inclusion in the TiO2 surface. The morphology of the package assured the successful and uniform disbursement of Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite into the chitosan-cellulose matrix, which led to enhanced water resistance and photocatalytic activity. The developed package is proficient in hindering the growth of fecal coliform bacteria (Esche (Escherichia coli) by 9 mm in the agar plate. Moreover, the efficient application of chitosan-Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite in food coating and packaging was examined in extending shelf life, minimizing water loss, and preventing microbial infection during the storage of chili (up to 7 days at 37 °C) and banana, respectively. It can be concluded from the results that chitosan-Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite-based food coating and packaging have competent potential for enhancing the shelf life of moist foods.

Chitosan and TiO2 functionalized polypropylene nonwoven fabrics with visible light induced photocatalytic antibacterial performances

Chitosan/TiO2 functionalized polypropylene (CS/TiO2/PP) nonwoven fabrics were fabricated through crosslinking of chitosan with glutaraldehyde followed by loading of TiO2 nanoparticles. The functionalized CS/TiO2/PP has super hydrophilicity and excellent visible light induced photocatalytic antibacterial properties owing to the synergistic effects of CS and TiO2. The photocatalytic degradation performance was determined by assessing the degradation of methyl blue under simulated visible light irradiation and its recyclability was also evaluated. In addition, SEM images demonstrated that TiO2 nanoparticles were distributed evenly on the surface of the 2 g/L CS/TiO2/PP. Meanwhile, the polypropylene surface showed a significant increase in hydrophilicity after being treated with chitosan and TiO2. The photocatalytic degradation results revealed that CS/TiO2/PP had higher photocatalytic properties than those of pure PP under visible light, and the degradation rate of methylene blue reached 96.4 % after 90 min of light exposure. Compared to pure PP, the antibacterial properties of CS/TiO2/PP significantly increased, and the bacterial reduction percentages were increased to 98.7 % and 96.3 %, against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. The functionalized CS/TiO2/PP composites exhibited promising potential in environmentally friendly antibacterial materials.

Application of atomic force microscopy in the characterization of fruits and vegetables and associated substances toward improvement in quality, preservation, and processing: nanoscale structure and mechanics perspectives

Fruits and vegetables are essential horticultural crops for humans. The quality of fruits and vegetables is critical in determining their nutritional value and edibility, which are decisive to their commercial value. Besides, it is also important to understand the changes in key substances involved in the preservation and processing of fruits and vegetables. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), a powerful technique for investigating biological surfaces, has been widely used to characterize the quality of fruits and vegetables and the substances involved in their preservation and processing from the perspective of nanoscale structure and mechanics. This review summarizes the applications of AFM to investigate the texture, appearance, and nutrients of fruits and vegetables based on structural imaging and force measurements. Additionally, the review highlights the application of AFM in characterizing the morphological and mechanical properties of nanomaterials involved in preserving and processing fruits and vegetables, including films and coatings for preservation, bioactive compounds for processing purposes, nanofiltration membrane for concentration, and nanoencapsulation for delivery of bioactive compounds. Furthermore, the strengths and weaknesses of AFM for characterizing the quality of fruits and vegetables and the substances involved in their preservation and processing are examined, followed by a discussion on the prospects of AFM in this field.

Trends in Food Pathogens Risk Attenuation

Foodborne pathogens represent one of the most dangerous threats to public health along the food chain all over the world. Over time, many methods were studied for pathogen inhibition in food, such as the development of novel packaging materials with enhanced properties for microorganisms' growth inhibition (coatings, films) and the use of emerging technologies, like ultrasound, radio frequency or microwave. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current trends in the food industry for pathogenic microorganisms' inhibition and food preservation in two directions, namely technology used for food processing and novel packaging materials development. Five technologies were discussed in this study, namely high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP), High-Pressure Processing (HPP), microwaves, radio frequency (RF) heating and ultrasound. These technologies proved to be efficient in the reduction of pathogenic microbial loads in different food products. Further, a series of studies were performed, related to novel packaging material development, by using a series of antimicrobial agents such as natural extracts, bacteriocins or antimicrobial nanoparticles. These materials proved to be efficient in the inhibition of a wide range of microorganisms, including Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, fungi and yeasts.

Metal-Based Nanoparticles in Food Packaging and Coating Technologies: A Review

Food security has continued to be a topic of interest in our world due to the increasing demand for food. Many technologies have been adopted to enhance food supply and narrow the demand gap. Thus, the attempt to use nanotechnology to improve food security and increase supply has emerged due to the severe shortcomings of conventional technologies, which have made them insufficient to cater to the continuous demand for food products. Hence, nanoparticles have been identified to play a major role in areas involving food production, protection, and shelf-life extensions. Specifically, metal-based nanoparticles have been singled out to play an important role in manufacturing materials with outstanding properties, which can help increase the shelf-life of different food materials. The physicochemical and biological properties of metal-based nanoparticles, such as the large surface area and antimicrobial properties, have made them suitable and adequately useful, not just as a regular packaging material but as a functional material upon incorporation into biopolymer matrices. These, amongst many other reasons, have led to their wide synthesis and applications, even though their methods of preparation and risk evaluation remain a topic of concern. This review, therefore, briefly explores the available synthetic methods, physicochemical properties, roles, and biological properties of metal-based nanoparticles for food packaging. Furthermore, the associated limitations, alongside quality and safety considerations, of these materials were summarily explored. Although this area of research continues to garner attention, this review showed that metal-based nanoparticles possess great potential to be a leading material for food packaging if the problem of migration and toxicity can be effectively modulated.

Biodegradable Polymers and Polymer Composites with Antibacterial Properties

Antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest threats to global health and food security today. It becomes increasingly difficult to treat infectious disorders because antibiotics, even the newest ones, are becoming less and less effective. One of the ways taken in the Global Plan of Action announced at the World Health Assembly in May 2015 is to ensure the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. In order to do so, attempts are made to develop new antimicrobial therapeutics, including biomaterials with antibacterial activity, such as polycationic polymers, polypeptides, and polymeric systems, to provide non-antibiotic therapeutic agents, such as selected biologically active nanoparticles and chemical compounds. Another key issue is preventing food from contamination by developing antibacterial packaging materials, particularly based on degradable polymers and biocomposites. This review, in a cross-sectional way, describes the most significant research activities conducted in recent years in the field of the development of polymeric materials and polymer composites with antibacterial properties. We particularly focus on natural polymers, i.e., polysaccharides and polypeptides, which present a mechanism for combating many highly pathogenic microorganisms. We also attempt to use this knowledge to obtain synthetic polymers with similar antibacterial activity.

UV-blocking biodegradable film based on flaxseed mucilage/pectin impregnated with titanium dioxide and calcium chloride for food packaging applications

A UV blocking and potentially biodegradable composite films are fabricated from flax seed mucilage and pectin with different concentrations of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and crosslinked with calcium chloride (CaCl₂). This study aimed to evaluate the physical, surface, and optical properties including color, potential biodegradability, and absorption kinetics of the developed film. From the observations made, addition of 5 wt% TiO₂ enhanced UV barrier property with a total color change (ΔE) of 23.441 ± 0.54 and increased its crystallinity to 54.1 % from 43.6 %. Crosslinking agent and TiO₂ resulted in a prolonged period of biodegradation of >21 days when compared to neat film. Also, swelling index of crosslinked film was reduced by 3 times of non-crosslinked films. Surface of the developed films has no cracks and agglomerates as observed from scanning electron microscope. Moisture absorption kinetic study reveals that all the films have best-fit data following a pseudo-second-order kinetic model with a correlation coefficient ≥0.99 and the rate was controlled by inter-particle diffusion. The film with 1 wt% TiO₂ and 5 wt% CaCl₂ showed the lowest rate constants (k₁) of 0.27 and (k₂) of 0.029. The results suggest that this film can be potentially used in food packaging as a UV-blocking layer with potential biodegradability and good moisture resistance as compared to pure flax seed mucilage or pectin films.

Comparative synthesis and characterization of nanocomposites using chemical and green approaches including a comparison study on in vivo and in vitro biological properties

In this study, the anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cytotoxic, and antibacterial effects of various substances were studied in vitro. Malachite green's photocatalytic effects were used to determine the optimised sample while it was exposed to visible light. The intended nanocomposites were created without any contaminants, according to XRD data. The overall characterisation results of the green synthesis of CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(G)) were superior to those of the chemical synthesis of CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(C)). At the five doses examined, the green synthesis of CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(G)) and chemical synthesis of CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(C)) resulted in higher α-glucosidase inhibition percentages in the antidiabetic assay. HaCaT cells and MCF-7 cells were less harmful when treated with chemically synthesized CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(C)), and green synthesized CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(G)). From the results of the cytotoxicity tests against MCF-7 cells and HaCaT cells using the nanocomposites, the IC₅₀ values of Salacia reticulata, green synthesized CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(G)), and chemically synthesized CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(C)) were calculated. This research work shows that the green synthesized CS/SiO₂/TiO₂/CeO₂/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (CSTCF(G)) have strong anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-diabetic properties, as well as considerable suppression of high activation in in vivo zebrafish embryo toxicity. The novelty of this study focused on the revelation that green synthesized nanocomposites are more affordable, environmentally friendly and biocompatible than chemically synthesized ones.

Antimicrobial Compounds in Food Packaging

This review presents current knowledge on antimicrobial agents that are already used in the food packaging industry. At the beginning, innovative ways of food packaging were discussed, including how smart packaging differs from active packaging, and what functions they perform. Next, the focus was on one of the groups of bioactive components that are used in these packaging, namely antimicrobial agents. Among the antimicrobial agents, we selected those that have already been used in packaging and that promise to be used elsewhere, e.g., in the production of antimicrobial biomaterials. Main groups of antimicrobial agents (i.e., metals and metal oxides, organic acids, antimicrobial peptides and bacteriocins, antimicrobial agents of plant origin, enzymes, lactoferrin, chitosan, allyl isothiocyanate, the reuterin system and bacteriophages) that are incorporated or combined with various types of packaging materials to extend the shelf life of food are described. The further development of perspectives and setting of new research directions were also presented.

Green synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles: Structural characterization and photoinduced antifungal activity against P. steckii

This study synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO₂ ) nanoparticles (NPs) from mango leaf extract and investigated the features and antibacterial capabilities of three different. The microscopic morphological observation, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy results showed that all three NPs showed agglomeration phenomenon, and the TN-1 sample existed as large agglomerates, whereas the agglomeration phenomenon of TN-3 sample was improved by the modified, without large agglomerates. The biosynthetic TN-2 and TN-3 NPs were spherical and uniform in size, whereas those of the TN-3 sample was the smallest, ranging from 10 to 30 nm. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy results exhibited that these were highly pure anatase NPs. The result of ultraviolet (UV)-visible-near-infrared spectral analysis showed that the TN-2 and TN-3 samples displayed higher UV absorption properties than the TN-1 samples and were highest in the modified NPs, which was more suitable for preparing chitosan-based nanocomposite material in future experiments and studies. The colony diameters of the TN-1, TN-2, and TN-3 treatment groups were 7.99, 7.80, and 6.86 mm, respectively, after 120 min of UV light induction at a wavelength of 365 nm. Significant differences were evident between the TN-3 and the other two groups (p < 0.05), indicating that the TN-3 sample more effectively inhibited Penicillium steckii than the other TiO₂ NPs. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Nanomaterials coated film preservation is widely used in fruit and vegetable preservation. In this paper, TiO₂ nanomaterials will be green synthesized using mango leaf and structurally characterized, whereas antibacterial tests will be conducted against the mango fruit-specific bacterium Penicillium steckii, which will provide a theoretical basis for the storage and preservation of mango.

Development of Nanocomposite Coatings

This Special Issue in Nanomaterials, "Development of Nanocomposite Coatings", was set up with the aim to provide authors with an opportunity to showcase their latest developments in this field [...].

Impact of chitosan administration on titanium dioxide nanoparticles induced testicular dysfunction

The potential reproductive toxic effects of oral TiO₂ NPs in adult male rats as well as the possible alleviation of chitosan administration was investigated. Animals were allocated to four groups; the first group received deionized water and was assigned as a control group. In the second group, rats received chitosan at a dose of 5 mg/kg BW/day. The third group was designed for administration of TiO₂ NPs at a dose of 150 mg/kg BW/day (1/80 LD₅₀). Rats in the fourth group received both TiO₂ NPs and chitosan. After 14 days, TiO₂ NPs induced testicular lipid peroxidation as well as oxidative stress. Nano-titanium significantly upregulated genes that encode apoptosis and inflammation in testicular tissue. Moreover, it induced histological alteration in the testicular structure with impairment in spermatogenesis via reduction of PCNA immune-staining. Chitosan administration significantly improved the activities of testicular GPx, SOD, and CAT enzymes. In addition, it significantly down-regulated the relative expressions of pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory testicular genes. Chitosan was able to improve the testicular architecture as well as spermatogenesis. The current study revealed the capability of chitosan to ameliorate nano-titanium induced testicular toxicity. Thus, attention should be given to the extensive consumption of nano-titanium particles.

CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine Nanocomposites Induce Apoptosis through the Mitochondrial Pathway with the Expression of P53, BAX, and BCL-2 in the Human K562 Cancer Cell Line

In this study, cells from human Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (K562) were cultivated with CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine nanocomposites. We examined nanocomposites using XRD, DLS, FESEM, TEM, PL, EDAX, and FTIR spectroscopy, as well as MTT for cytotoxicity, and AO/EtBr for apoptotic morphology assessment. The rate of apoptosis and cell cycle arrests was determined using flow cytometry. Flow cytometry was also employed to identify pro- and antiapoptotic proteins such as Bcl2, Bad, Bax, P53, and Cyt C. The FTIR spectrum revealed that the CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine nanocomposites were electrostatically interlocked. The nanocomposites' XRD signals revealed a hexagonal shape. In the DLS spectrum, nanocomposites were found to have a hydrodynamic diameter. As a result of their cytotoxic action, nanocomposites displayed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. The nanocomposites, like Doxorubicin, caused cell cycle phase arrest in K562 cells. After treatment with IC50 concentrations of CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine nanocomposites and Doxorubicin, a substantial percentage of cells were in G2/M stage arrest. Caspase-3, -7, -8, -9, Bax, Bad, Cyt C, and P53 expression were considerably enhanced in K562 cells, whereas Bcl2 expression was decreased, indicating that these cells may have therapeutic potential against human blood cancer/leukemia-derived disorders. As a result, the nanocomposites demonstrated outstanding anticancer potential against leukemic cells. CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Berbamine, according to our findings.

Photocatalytic Remediation of Harmful Alexandrium minutum Bloom Using Hybrid Chitosan-Modified TiO2 Films in Seawater: A Lab-Based Study

The uncontrolled growth of harmful algal blooms (HABs) can negatively impact the environment and pose threats to human health and aquatic ecosystems. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is known to be effective in killing harmful algae through flocculation and sedimentation. However, TiO2 in a dispersed form can harm other non-target marine organisms, which has raised concerns by environmentalists and scientists. This research seeks to explore the utility of immobilized titanium oxide as a photocatalyst for mitigation of HABs, where the Alexandrium minutum bloom was used as a model system herein. Chitosan was modified with 0.2 wt.% TiO2 (Chi/TiO2 (x mL; x = 1, 3 and 5 mL) and the corresponding films were prepared via solvent casting method. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the films reveal a highly uneven surface. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicates the reduction in chitosan crystallinity, where the presence of TiO2 was negligible, in accordance with its dispersion within the chitosan matrix. The photocatalytic mitigation of A.minutum was carried out via a physical approach in a laboratory-scale setting. The negative surface charge of the films was observed to repel the negatively charged A.minutum causing fluctuation in the removal efficiency (RE). The highest RE (76.1 ± 13.8%) was obtained when Chi/TiO2 (1 mL) was used at 72 h, where the hydroxyl radicals generated were inferred to contribute to the deactivation of the algae cells by causing oxidative stress. An outcome of this study indicates that such hybrid films have the potential to replace the non-immobilized (dispersed) TiO2 for HAB mitigation. However, further investigation is required to deploy these films for field applications at a larger scale.

Chitosan: A Sustainable Material for Multifarious Applications

Due to the versatility of its features and capabilities, chitosan generated from marine crustacean waste is gaining importance and appeal in a wide variety of applications. It was initially used in pharmaceutical and medical applications due to its antibacterial, biocompatible, and biodegradable properties. However, as the demand for innovative materials with environmentally benign properties has increased, the application range of chitosan has expanded, and it is now used in a variety of everyday applications. The most exciting aspect of the chitosan is its bactericidal properties against pathogens, which are prevalent in contaminated water and cause a variety of human ailments. Apart from antimicrobial and water filtration applications, chitosan is used in dentistry, in water filtration membranes to remove metal ions and some heavy metals from industrial effluents, in microbial fuel cell membranes, and in agriculture to maintain moisture in fruits and leaves. It is also used in skin care products and cosmetics as a moisturizer, in conjunction with fertilizer to boost plant immunity, and as a bi-adhesive for bonding woods and metals. As it has the capacity to increase the life span of food items and raw meat, it is an unavoidable component in food packing and preservation. The numerous applications of chitosan are reviewed in this brief study, as well as the approaches used to incorporate chitosan alongside traditional materials and its effect on the outputs.

Innovative Approach for Controlling Black Rot of Persimmon Fruits by Means of Nanobiotechnology from Nanochitosan and Rosmarinic Acid-Mediated Selenium Nanoparticles

The protection of persimmon fruits (Diospyros kaki L.) from postharvest fungal infestation with Alternaria alternata (A. alternate; black rot) is a major agricultural and economic demand worldwide. Edible coatings (ECs) based on biopolymers and phytocompounds were proposed to maintain fruit quality, especially with nanomaterials’ applications. Chitosan nanoparticles (NCt), rosmarinic acid bio-mediated selenium nanoparticles (RA/SeNPs) and their composites were produced, characterized and evaluated as ECs for managing persimmon black rot. The constructed NCt, RA/SeNPs and NCt/RA/SeNPs composite had diminished particles’ size diameters. The ECs solution of 1% NCt and NCt/RA/SeNPs composite led to a significant reduction of A. alternata radial growth in vitro, with 77.4 and 97.2%, respectively. The most powerful ECs formula contained 10 mg/mL from NCt/RA/SeNPs composite, which significantly reduced fungal growth than imazalil fungicide. The coating of persimmon with nanoparticles-based ECs resulted in a significant reduction of black rot disease severity and incidence in artificially infected fruits; the treatment with 1% of NCt/RA/SeNPs could completely (100%) hinder disease incidence and severity in coated fruits, whereas imazalil reduced them by 88.6 and 73.4%, respectively. The firmness of fruits is greatly augmented after ECs treatments, particularly with formulated coatings with 1% NCt/RA/SeNPs composite, which maintain fruits firmness by 85.7%. The produced ECs in the current study, based on NCt/RA/SeNPs composite, are greatly recommended as innovatively constructed human-friendly matrix to suppress the postharvest destructive fungi (A. alternata) and maintain the shelf-life and quality of persimmon fruits.

Photo-Induced Antifungal Activity of Chitosan Composite Film Solution with Nano-Titanium Dioxide and Nano-Silver

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to investigate the UV light-induced effect of chitosan-titanium dioxide-silver (CTS-TiO2-Ag) nanocomposite film solution against Penicillium steckii and the underlying physiological mechanism of this effect. With longer UV exposure time, pathogen inhibition increased. UV-photoinduced treatment for 120 min produced the smallest P. steckii colony diameter, at 4.85 mm. However, when this treatment was followed by 8 h of storage, the conductivity of the P. steckii culture medium reached its highest level, at 713 microsiemens per cm. After a 120-h growth period on mangoes under the same conditions, the lesion diameters and proportion of infected mangoes reached 12.61 mm and 41.67%, respectively. Because the P. steckii cell membrane was severely disrupted, its permeability increased, causing serious extravasation of intracellular protein and nucleic acid material. Malondialdehyde, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in the P. steckii cells reached maximum concentrations (2.1106 μmol/mL, 44.06 U/mL, and 24.67 U/mL, respectively) after 8 h of incubation. These results indicate significant P. steckii inhibition by the UV light induction of the CTS-TiO2-Ag nanocomposite film solution.

HIGHLIGHTS

Application of chitosan-ZnO nanoparticle edible coating to wild-simulated Korean ginseng root

Chitosan-ZnO nanoparticle (ZnONP) edible coating was applied to extend shelf life of wild-simulated Korean ginseng root (WsKG). In antimicrobial testing of various coating solutions (0.01, 0.02, 0.03% ZnONP), Bacillus cereus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) were most inhibited by the 0.03% chitosan-ZnONP solution. The 0.03% chitosan-ZnONP solution was finally used for edible coating of WsKG. In SEM analysis, the coat of chitosan and ZnONP was well-formed on the surface of WsKG. In isothermal storage tests (temperature: 5–20 °C, RH: 95%), microbial limit (4.70 log CFU/g) of total aerobic bacteria for non-coated and coated WsKG were reached at 3.9 and 6.3 weeks at 5 °C, 1.9 and 4.3 weeks at 10 °C, and 1.3 and 2.0 weeks at 20 °C, respectively. Mold occurred in the non-coated sample at 4 weeks at 5 °C, but not in the coated sample during 6 weeks. Chitosan-ZnONP edible coating was very effective in preserving WsKG.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles as multifunctional surface-active materials for smart/active nanocomposite packaging films

Environmental issues such as plastic packaging and high demand for fresh and safe food has increased the interest for developing smart/active food packaging films with colloidal nanoparticles (NPs). Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNPs) are cost effective and stable metal oxide NPs which could be used as a functional nano-filler for biodegradable food packaging due to their excellent biocompatibility, photo catalyzing, and antimicrobial properties. This article has comprehensively reviewed the functional properties and advantages of TNPs-containing smart/active films. The advantage of adding TNPs for ameliorating food packaging materials such as their physical, mechanical, moisture/light barrier, optical, thermal resistance, microstructure and chemical properties as well as, antibacterial, and photocatalytic properties are discussed. Also, the practical and migration properties of administrating TNPs in food packaging material are investigated. The ethylene decomposition activity of TNPs containing active films, could be used for increasing the shelf life of fruits/vegetables after harvesting. TNPs are safe with negligible migration rates which could be used for fabrication of multifunctional smart/active packaging films due to their antimicrobial properties and ethylene gas scavenging activities.

Metallic Nanoparticles in the Food Sector: A Mini-Review

Nanomaterials, and in particular metallic nanoparticles (MNPs), have significantly contributed to the production of healthier, safer, and higher-quality foods and food packaging with special properties, such as greater mechanical strength, improved gas barrier capacity, increased water repellency and ability to inhibit microbial contamination, ensuring higher quality and longer product shelf life. MNPs can also be incorporated into chemical and biological sensors, enabling the design of fast and sensitive monitoring devices to assess food quality, from freshness to detection of allergens, food-borne pathogens or toxins. This review summarizes recent developments in the use of MNPs in the field of food science and technology. Additionally, a brief overview of MNP synthesis and characterization techniques is provided, as well as of the toxicity, biosafety and regulatory issues of MNPs in the agricultural, feed and food sectors.

Biocompatible and Antimicrobial Cellulose Acetate-Collagen Films Containing MWCNTs Decorated with TiO2 Nanoparticles for Potential Biomedical Applications

This research focuses on the synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) decorated with TiO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) and incorporated in cellulose acetate-collagen film in order to obtain a new biomaterial with potential biomedical applications and improved antimicrobial activity. The successful decoration of the MWCNTs with TiO₂ NPs was confirmed by several structural and morphological analysis, such as Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The obtained nanocomposites were further incorporated into cellulose acetate-collagen films, at different concentrations and absorption kinetics, antimicrobial activity and in vitro biocompatibility of the obtained films was investigated. The antimicrobial tests sustained that the presence of the nanocomposites into the polymeric matrix is an important aspect in increasing and maintaining the antimicrobial activity of the polymeric wound dressings over time. The biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of the obtained films was evaluated using cellular viability/proliferation assay and fluorescent microscopy which revealed the ability of the obtained materials as potential wound dressing biomaterial.

Antibacterial Biodegradable Films Based on Alginate with Silver Nanoparticles and Lemongrass Essential Oil-Innovative Packaging for Cheese

Replacing the petroleum-based materials in the food industry is one of the main objectives of the scientists and decision makers worldwide. Biodegradable packaging will help diminish the environmental impact of human activity. Improving such biodegradable packaging materials by adding antimicrobial activity will not only extend the shelf life of foodstuff, but will also eliminate some health hazards associated with food borne diseases, and by diminishing the food spoilage will decrease the food waste. The objective of this research was to obtain innovative antibacterial films based on a biodegradable polymer, namely alginate. Films were characterized by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and microscopy, complex thermal analysis (TG-DSC-FTIR), UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Water vapor permeability and swelling behavior were also determined. As antimicrobial agents, we used silver spherical nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and lemongrass essential oil (LGO), which were found to act in a synergic way. The obtained films exhibited strong antibacterial activity against tested strains, two Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus) and two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhi). Best results were obtained against Bacillus cereus. The tests indicate that the antimicrobial films can be used as packaging, preserving the color, surface texture, and softness of cheese for 14 days. At the same time, the color of the films changed (darkened) as a function of temperature and light presence, a feature that can be used to monitor the storage conditions for sensitive food.

Titanium Dioxide/Phosphorous-Functionalized Cellulose Acetate Nanocomposite Membranes for DMFC Applications: Enhancing Properties and Performance

This study intends to provide new TiO₂/phosphorous-functionalized cellulose acetate (Ph-CA) nanocomposite membranes for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). A series of TiO₂/Ph-CA membranes were fabricated via solution casting technique using a systematic variation of TiO₂ nanoparticle content. Chemical structure, morphological changes, and thermal properties of the as-fabricated nanocomposite membranes were investigated by FTIR, TGA, SEM, and AFM analysis tools. Further, membranes' performance, mechanical properties, water uptake, thermal-oxidative stability, and methanol permeability were also evaluated. The results clarified that the ion-exchange capacity (IEC) of the developed nanocomposite membranes improved and reached a maximum value of 1.13 and 2.01 m_eq/g at 25 and 80 °C, respectively, using TiO₂ loading of 5 wt % compared to 0.6 and 0.81 m_eq/g for pristine Ph-CA membrane at the same temperature. Moreover, the TiO₂/Ph-CA nanocomposite exhibited excellent thermal stability with appreciable mechanical properties (49.9 MPa). The developed membranes displayed a lower methanol permeability of 0.98 × 10^-16 cm² s^-1 compared to 1.14 × 10^-9 cm² s^-1 for Nafion 117. The obtained results suggested that the developed nanocomposite membranes could be potentially applied as promising polyelectrolyte membranes for possible use in DMFCs.

Biodegradable Alginate Films with ZnO Nanoparticles and Citronella Essential Oil-A Novel Antimicrobial Structure

The petroleum-based materials could be replaced, at least partially, by biodegradable packaging. Adding antimicrobial activity to the new packaging materials can also help improve the shelf life of food and diminish the spoilage. The objective of this research was to obtain a novel antibacterial packaging, based on alginate as biodegradable polymer. The antibacterial activity was induced to the alginate films by adding various amounts of ZnO nanoparticles loaded with citronella (lemongrass) essential oil (CEO). The obtained films were characterized, and antibacterial activity was tested against two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhi) and two Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus) bacterial strains. The results suggest the existence of synergy between antibacterial activities of ZnO and CEO against all tested bacterial strains. The obtained films have a good antibacterial coverage, being efficient against several pathogens, the best results being obtained against Bacillus cereus. In addition, the films presented better UV light barrier properties and lower water vapor permeability (WVP) when compared with a simple alginate film. The preliminary tests indicate that the alginate films with ZnO nanoparticles and CEO can be used to successfully preserve the cheese. Therefore, our research evidences the feasibility of using alginate/ZnO/CEO films as antibacterial packaging for cheese in order to extend its shelf life.

Preparation and characterization of novel bionanocomposites based on garlic extract for preserving fresh Nile tilapia fish fillets

In this paper we describe the preparation of a new bionanocomposite based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), Arabic gum (AG) and gelatin (GL), incorporating garlic extract (GE) and TiO₂ nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs). The prepared bionanocomposites were evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and were evaluated for their antimicrobial effect. The permeability and thermal and mechanical properties of the films were assessed. The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), oxygen transmission rate (OTR), and mechanical, thermal and antimicrobial properties of the prepared bionanocomposite films were enhanced by the addition of GE and TiO₂-NPs. The effects of GE and TiO₂-NPs in combination incorporated into a CMC/AG/GL blend as an edible coating on the quality of fresh Nile tilapia fish fillets during refrigerated storage were evaluated. The microbiological status and weight loss of fresh Nile tilapia fish fillets were periodically tested for 21 days during storage at 4 °C. The results indicated that GE combined with TiO₂-NPs has a synergistic influence on the enhancement of the preservation properties of CMC/AG/GL/GE–TiO₂ bionanocomposites for refrigerated tilapia fish fillets, which could control microbial growth, and decrease weight loss during the storage of tilapia fish fillets.

In current work a new bionanocomposite based on carboxymethyl cellulose, Arabic gum and gelatin, incorporating garlic extract and TiO₂ nanoparticles as an edible coating for preserving the fresh Nile tilapia fish fillets during cold storage.

TiO2 Nanoparticle Filler-Based Mixed-Matrix PES/CA Nanofiltration Membranes for Enhanced Desalination

Mixed-matrix nanocomposite (PES/CA/PVP) membranes were fabricated for water desalination by incorporating varying amount of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) ranging from 0 and 2 wt. %. Efficient dispersion of nanoparticles within polymeric membranes was achieved using the chemical precipitation method for uniform surface generation, and an asymmetric morphology was achieved via phase inversion method. Finally, membranes were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), porosity and contact angle analysis. FTIR confirmed chemical composition of membranes in terms of polymers (PES/CA/PVP) and TiO₂. TGA analysis confirmed an increase in thermal stability of membranes with the increase of TiO₂ nanoparticles loading. The addition of TiO₂ nanoparticles also resulted in an increase in porous structures due to an increase in mean pore size, as shown by SEM results. An increase in the hydrophilicity of the membranes was observed by increasing the concentration of TiO₂ nanoparticles. The present study investigated pristine and mixed-matrix nanocomposite NF membrane performance while filtering a NaCl salt solution at varying concentration range (from 1 to 4 g/Lit 6 bar). The prepared membranes demonstrated significant improvement in water permeability and hydrophilicity. Further, to optimize the water flux and salt rejection, the concentration of Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was optimized along with TiO₂ nanoparticles. Both the water flux and salt rejection of the fabricated membranes were observed to increase with an increase inTiO₂ nanoparticles to 2 wt. % loading with optimized PVP concentration, which demonstrated the improved desalination performance of resultant membranes.

Antimicrobial Effect of Chitosan Films on Food Spoilage Bacteria

Synthetic materials commonly used in the packaging industry generate a considerable amount of waste each year. Chitosan is a promising feedstock for the production of functional biomaterials. From a biological point of view, chitosan is very attractive for food packaging. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the antibacterial activity of a set of chitosan-metal oxide films and different chitosan-modified graphene (oxide) films against two foodborne pathogens: Campylobacter jejuni ATCC 33560 and Listeria monocytogenes 19115. Moreover, we wanted to check whether the incorporation of antimicrobial constituents such as TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, Ag, and graphene oxide (GO) into the polymer matrices can improve the antibacterial properties of these nanocomposite films. Finally, this research helps elucidate the interactions of these materials with eukaryotic cells. All chitosan-metal oxide films and chitosan-modified graphene (oxide) films displayed improved antibacterial (C. jejuni ATCC 33560 and L. monocytogenes 19115) properties compared to native chitosan films. The CS-ZnO films had excellent antibacterial activity towards L. monocytogenes (90% growth inhibition). Moreover, graphene-based chitosan films caused high inhibition of both tested strains. Chitosan films with graphene (GO, GOP, GOP-HMDS, rGO, GO-HMDS, rGOP), titanium dioxide (CS-TiO2 20:1a, CS-TiO2 20:1b, CS-TiO2 2:1, CS-TiO2 1:1a, CS-TiO2 1:1b) and zinc oxide (CS-ZnO 20:1a, CS-ZnO 20:1b) may be considered as a safe, non-cytotoxic packaging materials in the future.

Antimicrobial, antioxidant and physical properties of chitosan film containing Akebia trifoliata (Thunb.) Koidz. peel extract/montmorillonite and its application

A novel active packaging film was prepared in this study that incorporated Akebia trifoliata (Thunb.) Koidz. peel extracts (APE) and montmorillonite (MMT) into chitosan (CH) films. Compared with the pure CH film, the CH/APE film showed significantly higher tensile strength, elongation at break, UV light resistance, and antibacterial activity; the CH/MMT film displayed significant increases in contact angle, antioxidant activity, oxygen permeability, and thermal stability. SEM and AFM analyses showed that the additions were well-distributed into the CH matrix, but MMT induced a more compact and rougher structure. The CH-based film formula was optimized using the single-factor test and Box-Behnken design and was 0.15% MMT, 0.15% APE, and 1.50% CH. Besides, the optimized coating was applied in the postharvest preservation of A. trifoliata fruits, which yielded a significant effect on the delaying crack and mature of the fruits during 35 days of storage at 5 °C.

Antimicrobial Hybrid Coatings Combining Enhanced Biocidal Activity under Visible-Light Irradiation with Stimuli-Renewable Properties

Hybrid, organic-inorganic, biocidal films exhibiting polishing properties were developed as effective long-lasting antimicrobial surface coatings. The films were prepared using cationically modified chitosan, synthesized by the reaction with 3-bromo-N,N,N-trimethylpropan-1-aminium bromide, to introduce permanent biocidal quaternary ammonium salt (QAS) groups along the polymer backbone and were cross-linked by a novel, pH-cleavable acetal cross-linker, which allowed polishing the hybrid coatings with the solution pH. TiO₂ nanoparticles, modified with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets, to narrow their band gap energy value and shift their photocatalytic activity in the visible light regime, were introduced within the polymer film to enhance its antibacterial activity. The hybrid coatings exhibited an effective biocidal activity in the dark (∼2 Log and ∼3 Log reduction for Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, respectively), when only the QAS sites interacted with the bacteria membrane, and an excellent biocidal action upon visible-light irradiation (∼5 Log and ∼6 Log reduction for Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, respectively) due to the synergistic antimicrobial effect of the QAS moieties and the rGO-modified TiO₂ nanoparticles. The gradual decrease in the film thickness, upon immersion of the coatings in mildly basic (pH 8), neutral (pH 7), and acidic (pH 6) media, reaching 10, 20, and 70% reduction, respectively, after 60 days of immersion time, confirmed the polishing behavior of the films, whereas their effective antimicrobial action was retained. The biocompatibility of the hybrid films was verified in human cell culture studies. The proposed approach enables the facile development of highly functional coatings, combining biocompatibility and bactericidal action with a "kill and self-clean" mechanism that allows the regeneration of the outer surface of the coating leading to a strong and prolonged antimicrobial action.

Innovative Antimicrobial Chitosan/ZnO/Ag NPs/Citronella Essential Oil Nanocomposite-Potential Coating for Grapes

New packaging materials based on biopolymers are gaining increasing attention due to many advantages like biodegradability or existence of renewable sources. Grouping more antimicrobials agents in the same packaging can create a synergic effect, resulting in either a better antimicrobial activity against a wider spectrum of spoilage agents or a lower required quantity of antimicrobials. In the present work, we obtained a biodegradable antimicrobial film that can be used as packaging material for food. Films based on chitosan as biodegradable polymer, with ZnO and Ag nanoparticles as filler/antimicrobial agents were fabricated by a casting method. The nanoparticles were loaded with citronella essential oil (CEO) in order to enhance the antimicrobial activity of the nanocomposite films. The tests made on Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and fungal strains indicated a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, with inhibition diameters of over 30 mm for bacterial strains and over 20 mm for fungal strains. The synergic effect was evidenced by comparing the antimicrobial results with chitosan/ZnO/CEO or chitosan/Ag/CEO simple films. According to the literature and our preliminary studies, these formulations are suitable as coating for fruits. The obtained nanocomposite films presented lower water vapor permeability values when compared with the chitosan control film. The samples were characterized by SEM, fluorescence and UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy and microscopy, and thermal analysis.

Biodegradable Antimicrobial Food Packaging: Trends and Perspectives

This review presents a perspective on the research trends and solutions from recent years in the domain of antimicrobial packaging materials. The antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities can be induced by the main polymer used for packaging or by addition of various components from natural agents (bacteriocins, essential oils, natural extracts, etc.) to synthetic agents, both organic and inorganic (Ag, ZnO, TiO2 nanoparticles, synthetic antibiotics etc.). The general trend for the packaging evolution is from the inert and polluting plastic waste to the antimicrobial active, biodegradable or edible, biopolymer film packaging. Like in many domains this transition is an evolution rather than a revolution, and changes are coming in small steps. Changing the public perception and industry focus on the antimicrobial packaging solutions will enhance the shelf life and provide healthier food, thus diminishing the waste of agricultural resources, but will also reduce the plastic pollution generated by humankind as most new polymers used for packaging are from renewable sources and are biodegradable. Polysaccharides (like chitosan, cellulose and derivatives, starch etc.), lipids and proteins (from vegetal or animal origin), and some other specific biopolymers (like polylactic acid or polyvinyl alcohol) have been used as single component or in blends to obtain antimicrobial packaging materials. Where the package's antimicrobial and antioxidant activities need a larger spectrum or a boost, certain active substances are embedded, encapsulated, coated, grafted into or onto the polymeric film. This review tries to cover the latest updates on the antimicrobial packaging, edible or not, using as support traditional and new polymers, with emphasis on natural compounds.