Emerging Trends in Algae‐Derived Biopolymers‐Based Films and Coatings for Future Food Packaging Applications: A Review

ABSTRACT

Petroleum‐based plastic packaging is widely used in the food industry, generating non‐biodegradable waste and microplastic pollution. Algae are a sustainable and versatile source rich in alginate, carrageenan, agar, and ulvan, which exhibit unique structural and functional properties suitable for packaging applications. This review critically examines recent advancements in algae‐derived films and coatings for food packaging applications, with emphasis on their extraction methods, structural characteristics, and functional performance. Various extraction techniques, including solvent, microwave‐assisted, and ultrasound‐assisted methods, are discussed in relation to their efficiency and impact on material properties. The study explores the application of algae‐derived biopolymers in active and smart packaging systems, as well as the current challenges and opportunities for improvement. Algae‐based polymers exhibit excellent film‐forming ability, transparency, mechanical strength, and barrier properties, which can be further enhanced through blending, crosslinking, and incorporation of bioactive compounds. These materials also demonstrate significant potential in active and smart packaging systems due to their inherent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Despite these advantages, several challenges limit their large‐scale application, including hydrophilicity, brittleness, sensitivity to humidity, and scalability constraints in processing and cost. Current research is focused on material modification, nanocomposite development, and process optimization to overcome these limitations. Algae‐derived films and coatings hold great potential as eco‐friendly alternatives to plastics, combining biodegradability, functionality, and consumer safety. Innovation and development of algae‐based packaging ensure their industrial feasibility and commercial‐scale food packaging applications.