Recent progress in edible films and coatings: Toward green and sustainable food packaging technologies

The escalating environmental crisis associated with plastic waste has catalyzed the development of sustainable alternatives, with edible coatings and films emerging as eco-friendly and functional packaging solutions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in edible packaging technologies, focusing on novel biopolymer-based formulations, nanotechnology integration, and active packaging innovations. Key highlights include the use of natural polymers such as chitosan, starch, alginate, and proteins, often blended or modified to improve mechanical properties, barrier performance, and biodegradability. Special emphasis is placed on the incorporation of bioactive compounds including antioxidants, antimicrobials, and nutraceuticals to enhance food preservation, extend shelf life, and ensure microbial safety. The role of nano-encapsulation and nanocomposite reinforcement is critically analyzed in relation to improved controlled release, stability, and film strength. Moreover, regulatory considerations, scalability issues, and consumer acceptance are explored as critical barriers to widespread commercial adoption. Recent trends such as the use of underutilized agricultural by-products, smart coatings with freshness indicators, and surface wettability engineering are discussed as emerging solutions. Finally, the review identifies strategic research directions, including enhancing mechanical and swelling stability, understanding crystallinity changes due to bioactive incorporation, and developing predictive release models. These insights collectively underline the transformative potential of edible packaging in promoting sustainability, food safety, and circular economy practices across the global food industry.