Integration of sustainable packaging and emerging technologies for a circular economy in food production

• Grant number: 25/02876-8
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Technology
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Luís Marangoni Júnior
• Grantee: Luís Marangoni Júnior
• Principal researcher abroad: Cláudia Sofia Cordeiro Nunes
• Institution abroad: Universidade de Aveiro (UA), Portugal
• Principal researcher abroad: Idalina José Monteiro Gonçalves
• Institution abroad: Universidade de Aveiro (UA), Portugal
• Principal researcher abroad: MANUEL ANTONIO COIMBRA RODRIGUES DA SILVA
• Institution abroad: Universidade de Aveiro (UA), Portugal
• Principal researcher abroad: Paula Celeste da Silva Ferreira
• Institution abroad: Universidade de Aveiro (UA), Portugal
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia de Alimentos (FEA). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Roniérik Pioli Vieira
• Associated research grant: 24/07555-2 - High-intensity pulsed light: photo-crosslinking of biopolymers, packaging and food stability, AP.JP

Abstract

This research project aims to establish a dynamic international collaboration between the University of Campinas and the University of Aveiro, with the goal of enhancing the quality of ongoing research projects and developing new proposals. The scientific focus of the project is to develop active films from poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) blends incorporating polyterpenes through extrusion, the most widely used technique in the packaging industry. The films produced by extrusion will be characterized in terms of their structure, morphology, and physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties, allowing for a detailed understanding of the developed materials. Subsequently, the interaction of these materials with pulsed light (LP) technology will be explored, investigating how this innovative approach affects the characteristics of the active films. The research will also examine the use of active PLA/PBAT packaging with polyterpenes in combination with LP for food preservation, assessing the effects of treatment on the inactivation of microorganisms and the preservation of the products' physical and chemical properties. Thus, the project aims to develop innovative solutions that not only extend the shelf-life of food but also help reduce plastic and food waste generation. Finally, the packaging used in the study will be recycled to produce filaments for 3D printing, promoting sustainability. This project provides an integrated approach that connects food, packaging, processes, and sustainable practices in a comprehensive and innovative manner. (AU)