CHAPTER 9: Packaging Applications of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)

Packaging is an important processes to maintain the quality of food products during storage, transportation and consumption. Also, packaging is a powerful marketing tool, inspiring consumers and bringing to the consumer of the brand all the information needed to make a choice. Over the last fifty years, synthetic polymers have replaced conventional materials (metals, ceramics, paper) in packaging applications due to their functionality, light weight, ease of processing, and low cost. However, the use of synthetic polymers manufactured from fossil fuels, which are non-renewable, have a strong impact on the environment. In this way, the use of renewable biodegradable polymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) can fill a niche market, significantly reducing packaging waste, contributing to sustainable development and, if properly managed, reducing their environmental impact upon disposal. This chapter discusses the use of PHA in food packaging considering its intrinsic characteristics.