Microbial metabolites for food packaging applications

Safe and sufficient food supply is a major challenge in developing countries, where approximately 50 % of food losses are due to inadequate management techniques. A variety of packaging technologies are used to maintain food quality and prevent loss during food distribution. Recently, active food packaging methods have been used by adding functional substances such as antibacterial and antioxidant properties to the packaging materials. As part of these active packaging technologies, methods of utilizing microbial metabolites with various functionalities in packaging are emerging. Among the microbial metabolites, organic acids, bacteriocins, enzymes, and biopolymers can be used as functional packaging materials. These microbial metabolites represent an attractive alternative to chemically synthesized additives due to their biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and powerful functionalities. This review explores the diverse roles of microbial metabolites in food packaging applications and highlights their potential to enhance antibacterial activity, improve barrier properties and extend shelf life. Through a comprehensive review of recent developments, this study highlights the potential of microbial metabolites to revolutionize the food packaging industry by providing safer, more effective and environmentally friendly solutions.