Bio-based multilayer barrier films for food packaging

The aim of this presentation is to demonstrate totally bio-based multilayer barrier packaging films. These films were prepared with a thin coating of fibrillated cellulose as an effective barrier against oxygen and/or mineral oil residues. It is shown that such films are feasible for packing of dry foods in formats such as bag-in-box, flexible pouches, and most recently in paper-based stand-up pouches. The cellulose fibrils can provide the films with a barrier suitable even for demanding products and for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). For example, the bio-based MAP pouches containing ground hazelnuts were able to retain both their shape and internal atmosphere, while maintaining the original product quality. However, processes such as irradiation and aggressive compounds from the food product were found to impair the oxygen barrier provided by the fibrillated cellulose.