Monique Lacroix
University of Québec, Canada
Title: Development of active edible coating and biodegradable packaging for food application
Biography
Biography: Monique Lacroix
Abstract
A variety of food sources polymers mainly polysaccharides, proteins, lipids can be used for the development of edible coating films. These compounds can be mixed with poly(ε-caprolactone) or poly(lactic acid) and nanocellulose as reinforcing fillers for the development of biodegradable polymers with improved physico-chemical properties. The development of coatings can increase the shelf life; preserve the physicochemical properties and sensorial properties of foods. The development of packaging is intended to replace conventional synthetic packaging. More than 30% of solid waste from packaging is related to food packaging. The development of biodegradable packaging is therefore an interest in reducing waste. The challenge for researchers is to obtain a stable film insoluble having good physicochemical properties while being biodegradable. In addition, the manufacturing cost of these films must be comparable to synthetic films. The functions of edible coating and biodegradable packaging can also be improved by the addition of various compounds such as natural antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds. Controlling the release of active compounds, improving the water resistance and the physicochemical properties are also possible by chemical modification or crosslinking of these polymers. During this conference, the potential and functionality of different types of films will be presented. Examples will be reported through our research conducted in our laboratories on how to check the functionality of the films and their applications made in the food sector.