Bentonite clay as a nanofiller for food packaging applications

Abstract

Background: Bentonite clay, a versatile and naturally occurring clay mineral, has garnered significant attention in the packaging field due to its unique combination of structural, mechanical, and adsorptive properties. It belongs to the smectite mineral group, characterized by its ability to expand and swell when it comes into contact with water. This unique property of smectite clays like bentonite makes them highly effective in various industrial and commercial applications. The intricate crystal structure of bentonite, characterized by a layered arrangement of alumina and silica tetrahedral sheets, imparts exceptional swelling properties and cation exchange capacity to the material. Scope and approach: This review explores cutting-edge research on the incorporation of bentonite into biodegradable packaging systems, paving the way for eco-friendly and functional packaging solutions. The paper discusses the modification of bentonite, offering new methods and techniques to tailor its properties for specific packaging applications. Furthermore, it also tackles safety concerns and legal matters concerning using bentonite in food packaging, guaranteeing a thorough grasp of the regulatory environment. By combining these fundamental elements into a single document, this research offers a comprehensive and unique input to food packaging. This establishes the groundwork for forthcoming progress in sustainable and high-performance packaging materials. Key findings and conclusion: Unique properties enable bentonite to interact effectively with gases, liquids, and other materials, making it a valuable candidate for various packaging functions, including moisture control, gas barrier enhancement, and antimicrobial activity. While bentonite offers promising opportunities for innovative packaging solutions, safety considerations are paramount. Heavy metals, radionuclides, and other contaminants in natural bentonite deposits necessitate rigorous testing and quality control measures to ensure that their incorporation into packaging materials complies with regulatory standards and poses no threat to human health or the environment. In conclusion, using bentonite in food packaging can provide a sustainable alternative by reducing the dependency on non-renewable fossil-based polymers.