Food spoilage, postharvest losses and foodborne illnesses are significant issues worldwide. Radiation processing technology in combination with secure food packaging is a means to assure food safety and reduce waste. Due to the growing demand for recycling of packaging, biodegradable materials and new “environment friendly” food packaging materials are under development. However, many of these materials have not yet been fully evaluated for changes in functional properties and regulatory approval in the context of food irradiation. This CRP will address the role of irradiation in the development and improvement of these materials and focus on:The effects of ionizing radiations on commercially relevant polymers in contact with foods;The influence of radiation on functional properties of emerging polymer packaging and coatings formulations along with the safety and suitability in food packaging; andDevelopment of natural polymer-based packaging materials.
The CRP will focus on research to develop new packaging materials based on natural and synthetic polymers by radiation techniques, and to assess the effects of ionizing radiation (gamma, electrons, and X-rays) on commercial and emerging food packaging materials, in particular for their use in pre-packaged foods intended for radiation processing.
To assess the effects of ionizing radiations on selected commercially relevant polymers (including their additives) used in contact with food (polyolefin and derivatives, polyamides, polyesters, ethylene vinyl alcohol, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polystyrenes)
To assess the relationship between radiation processing and the structural and functional properties of emerging advanced food packaging materials and coatings (Type 2) in contact with food including Nano-filled polymers, Polymer films and coatings with advanced/ active/ smart functions, Natural and synthetic biodegradable polymer-based materials.
To develop new functional packaging materials based on natural polymers with improved stability, sealability, biodegradability and recyclability by using radiation techniques.
To harmonize protocols and methodologies for measurements and testing of packaging materials.
The CRP had a huge impact in creating a functioning network of collaborating research institutions that will continue for a long time. The participants gained knowledge and expertise in the preparation of new materials by using radiation techniques, investigating their properties, and optimizing them for specific food packaging purpose. Numerous products had been developed and are ready for commercialization. In the same time, new avenues had opened for further research and development. All these results could only be achieved through collaboration and meetings provided under the framework of the CRP.
The topic of the CRP is gaining in relevance of the Member State institutions and of the market. The need for high performance, yet environmentally sustainable new materials tailored for the variety of needs of the food packaging industry is increasing.