Application of nanoclays in food packaging

Nanoclays have received special attention due to their wide range of industrial applications due to some inherent properties. Nowadays one of the most active areas of nanoclays research is their employ in food packaging. In this paper, at first, the reasons of nanoclay applications are introduced. Then critical issue in developing food packaging materials are reviewed to minimize gasses and other small molecules transfer between out-side packaging environment and food. The reason for improvement of permeability of films is discussed. The permeability of nanocomposite films may be determined using two factors: diffusion and solubility coefficients. Then antimicrobial activity of clay-based nanocomposites and its mechanism and factors influencing on it are mentioned. The way of evaluation of mechanical properties of the nanocomposite films and strategies for improvement are introduced. Finally, other applications of nanoclays e.g. controlled release of various bioactive molecules and development of reinforced food contact materials have been introduced.