Edible biodegradable agar-based films and coatings in ready-to-eat strawberries: new trends for an environmentally sustainable food industry

Abstract

[Extrato] Despite the general awareness for the sustainability of our Planet, nonbiodegradable petroleum-based synthetic polymers still the foremost food packaging materials, mainly due to their availability, low-cost and functionality. Conversely, there is an increasing consumer’s demand for natural products, with minimal additives and free of synthetic elements in contact with foods. In this context, packaging biodegradable materials is very appealing. The overall goal of this study was to produce and characterize edible agar films and coatings as part of a global strategy for the environmental sustainability through replacing fossil by biodegradable materials.