Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents a comprehensive investigation into the development of a novel food packaging material aimed at enhancing sustainability and preservation properties in the food industry. The study addresses the critical need for sustainable packaging solutions that can effectively preserve food products, minimize environmental impact, and meet consumer demands for eco-friendly packaging options. The research methodology involved a combination of literature review, experimental studies, and analytical techniques to design and evaluate the performance of the novel packaging material. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms related to food packaging and sustainability. The literature review in Chapter Two explores existing studies on sustainable packaging materials, preservation techniques, consumer preferences, and environmental considerations in food packaging. Chapter Three details the research methodology, including material selection, fabrication processes, testing procedures, and data analysis techniques employed in the study. The experimental work focused on evaluating the mechanical, barrier, and antimicrobial properties of the novel packaging material to ensure its efficacy in preserving food products and extending shelf life. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the research findings, highlighting the performance of the novel food packaging material in terms of sustainability, preservation efficiency, and consumer acceptance. The results demonstrate the potential of the developed material to address key challenges in the food packaging industry and contribute to sustainable practices. Finally, Chapter Five summarizes the key findings, conclusions, and practical implications of the study. The thesis concludes with recommendations for future research directions and industry applications of the novel food packaging material. Overall, this research contributes to the advancement of sustainable packaging solutions in the food industry, offering a promising approach to enhancing food preservation and reducing environmental impact through innovative packaging design.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of a novel food packaging material with enhanced sustainability and preservation properties" aims to address the growing need for sustainable solutions in the food packaging industry. With the increasing awareness of environmental issues and the negative impact of conventional packaging materials, there is a pressing demand for innovative packaging solutions that offer both sustainability and effective food preservation. The research will focus on the development of a novel food packaging material that not only meets the required standards for food safety and preservation but also incorporates sustainable elements to reduce environmental impact. By leveraging advances in material science and technology, the project seeks to create a packaging material that is biodegradable, recyclable, and energy-efficient, while maintaining the necessary barrier properties to protect and preserve food products. Key objectives of the research include investigating the properties of different sustainable materials, such as biopolymers and bio-based compounds, assessing their compatibility with various food types, evaluating their barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and light, and optimizing the manufacturing process to ensure cost-effectiveness and scalability. The study will also consider the environmental impact of the new packaging material throughout its lifecycle, from raw material sourcing to end-of-life disposal or recycling. The project will employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on knowledge from food science, materials engineering, packaging technology, and sustainability studies. By combining expertise from these diverse fields, the research aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in creating sustainable food packaging solutions. The anticipated outcomes of the study include the successful formulation of a novel food packaging material with enhanced sustainability and preservation properties, validated through laboratory testing and real-world applications. The research findings are expected to contribute to the advancement of sustainable packaging technology, offering a viable alternative to traditional packaging materials and supporting the transition towards a more environmentally friendly food packaging industry. Overall, the research overview underscores the importance of developing innovative solutions to address the dual challenges of sustainability and food preservation in the packaging sector. Through a systematic and collaborative approach, the project seeks to make a meaningful contribution to the ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable and resilient food packaging system for the future.