Application of Radiation Technology in Development of Advanced Packaging Materials for Food Products

The prepared convenience food sector has become a significant part of the economy and/or is evolving in many developed and developing countries. Packaging technology underpins the development of this sector and ensures food quality and safety. Radiation processing could provide attractive options for the food packaging industry worldwide. Radiation technology enables the development of new polymeric materials (modified natural polymers and nanocomposites), new packaging technologies (surface irradiation) and new dye printing methods (e.g. high gloss, abrasion and chemical resistant finish produced without volatile chemicals), which can be both sustainable and environmentally friendly. In addition, the irradiation of pre-packaged food requires radiation tolerant packaging that retains the necessary properties to prevent post-treatment contamination. There is a need and an opportunity for collaboration between radiation chemists, material scientists, food irradiation specialists and food safety specialists to examine the complete life-cycle of food packaging and encourage the development of novel and environmentally friendly food packaging materials and technologies. The CRP proposal was formulated based on the conclusions and recommendations of th