Current advancements in applications of chitosan based nano-metal oxides as food preservative materials

Objective(s): A remarkable growing effort has been conducted by several researchers to fabricate food packaging materials which are able to protect foodstuffs and enhance their shelf-life from food-borne pathogens and fungal attack which causes great damage to the food industries. Recent studies has focused on the potential applications of nano-metal oxides in food packaging area. Methods: This study reviews the latest trends and research results concerning the application of chitosan films containing some important nano-metal oxides as appropriate materials for food applications. Results: Nano-metal oxides including zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium dioxide, copper oxide, iron oxide, silicon dioxide, and silica are the most common nano-metal oxides that incorporated into the chitosan film for improving its antimicrobial, physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Conclusions: The reviewed nano-metal oxides may have positive implications for food industries, particularly in the area of food packaging based on nanoparticles to improve the physic-mechanical properties and also quality shelf-life parameters of foodstuffs.