Abstract :
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 shelflife from foodborne pathogens and fungal attack which causes great damage to the food industries. Recent studies has focused on the potential applications of nanometal oxides in food packaging area. Methods: This study reviews the latest trends and research results concerning the application of chitosan films containing some important nanometal oxides as appropriate materials for food applications. Results: Nanometal oxides including zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium dioxide, copper oxide, iron oxide, silicon dioxide, and silica are the most common nanometal oxides that incorporated into the chitosan film for improving its antimicrobial, physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Conclusions: The reviewed nanometal oxides may have positive implications for food industries, particularly in the area of food packaging based on nanoparticles to improve the physicmechanical properties and also quality shelflife parameters of foodstuffs.
