Document Type : Scientific Paper
Authors
PhD Student, Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
The use of petroleum-derived plastics, especially pentagonal plastics (polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate), provides numerous and significant social benefits. For example, plastics are used to package food, water and beverages and contribute to the health and safety of people all around the world. In addition to food, most personal items, cosmetics and household items are packed in plastic containers. However, the proliferation of plastic contamination is a global concern. "Reuse, Reduce and Recycle" offers a solution; although it is not enough to prevent the improper use of plastics. Bio-based plastics, like traditional fossil-based plastics, can be recycled or incinerated. The popularity of biodegradable plastics in agriculture and the food packaging industry is increasing. However, they occupy a relatively small portion of plastic use. Biodegradable polymers help industries achieve sustainable development, thereby strengthening the green economy, reducing greenhouse gases in the environment and valuing waste biomass. Biodegradable films are made of animal proteins (including myofibrillar proteins of fish, collagen, gelatin, etc.), plants (rice, wheat, corn, barley, sunflower etc.), legumes (locust beans, peas, etc.), and aquatic plants such as macrophytes.
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