Review: clay-based ethylene scavengers for sustainable active packaging applications

Using chemical-based ethylene scavengers for climacteric fruits and vegetable preservation and shelf-life extension has adverse effects on human health and the environment. Technology research has gained popularity using sustainable and non-toxic materials to overcome traditional ethylene removal and freshness maintenance challenges. Clay, a naturally occurring mineral with high availability, low cost, and unique functional properties, has been investigated over the years. It has shown potential as an effective and safe candidate for fresh produce preservation due to its non-toxicity and ethylene adsorption capacity. Recently, clay-based or clay-modified ethylene scavengers have drawn attention due to their high specific surface area, ease of modification, and efficiency as an active packaging material. The review paper aims to highlight the key details of clay-based ethylene scavengers, illustrating its mechanism of ethylene removal, classification of clay, a factor that regulates ethylene removal capacity, and the form and application of clay used for fresh produce preservation. The review also addresses the legal and regulatory aspects, challenges, and future directions of clay-based ethylene scavengers. Clay-based films, sachets, pads, and pellet covers have been used for ethylene control and show promising approaches for sustainable food packaging. Clay-specific surface area, pore volume, storage temperature, and humidity significantly affect the ethylene removal capacity. The review is significant for promoting the development and expanding the industrial application of clay-based ethylene scavengers for fresh produce packaging.

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