Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Natural antimicrobial technologies in food packaging

Great Iruoghene Edo, Mark Ohioghie Aihiokhai, Joshua Othuke Orogu, Izuwa Iwanegbe, Raghda S. Makia, Ephraim Evi Alex Oghroro, Joseph Oghenewogaga Owheruo, Emad Yousif, Agatha Ngukuran Jikah, Ufuoma Augu stina Igbuku, Arthur Efeoghene Athan Essaghah, Ibiyinka Fuwape, Maryam Rabiu Aliyu, Huzaifa Umar, D. S. Ahmed, Ahmed A. Alamiery

Next Materials · 2026

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Summary

This review examines natural antimicrobial technologies incorporated into food packaging materials as a strategy to extend shelf-life and reduce reliance on synthetic preservatives. The paper likely surveys classes of natural antimicrobial agents (e.g. plant extracts, essential oils, bioactive compounds) and their application in packaging systems, evaluating efficacy, safety, and practical implementation challenges. The work contributes to the emerging field of bioactive packaging, bridging food safety and sustainable materials science.

Regional applicability

The findings apply broadly to United Kingdom and European food packaging regulations, which increasingly favour natural and sustainable preservation technologies. However, specific regulatory pathways and market acceptance of natural antimicrobial packaging vary by jurisdiction; UK implementation would need alignment with food contact materials regulations (FCM Regulation).

Key measures

Antimicrobial efficacy, mechanism of action, packaging performance, shelf-life extension, safety profiles of natural antimicrobial agents

Outcomes reported

The study likely reviews natural antimicrobial technologies applied to food packaging systems. The focus appears to be on identifying, characterising, and evaluating antimicrobial agents derived from natural sources for food preservation.

Theme
Measurement & metrics
Subject
Pesticides, contaminants & food safety
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
System type
Food supply chain
DOI
10.1016/j.nxmate.2026.102453
Catalogue ID
SNmqep5uit-dh85i7

Topic tags

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