Zein and Zein-Based Nanoparticles for Food Packaging Applications: A Global View

摘要

Zein and zein-based nano-particles have been used in food, nutrition, pharmacy and medicine. This short review focuses on preparations, properties and applications of zein and zein-based nanoparticles for food packaging. The preparation procedures and principles properties of the nanoparticles are described. Properties and efficiencies of the nanoparticles are compared with their corresponding bulk and larger particles counterparts. The following major conclusions are drown: (i) among biopolymers, zein is unique for fabrication of nano particles/nanocomposites, due to its hydrophobic nature; (ii) mechanical and moisture barrier properties of the zein based nanoparticles can be improved significantly in comparison with their corresponding bulk and larger particles counterparts; (iii) zein as a matrix can be combined with a nano-bioactive material possessing antioxidant or flavoring properties to fabricate an active package; (iv) zein has been approved for oral use by Food and Drug Administration, FDA. However, the toxicity of zein nanocomposites or zein-based nanoparticles has not been investigated yet; and (v) applications of zein nanocomposites in food packaging result in longer shelf-life of foods with a better quality in comparison with larger sized of zein composite counterparts.