Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis focuses on the development of a sustainable packaging solution aimed at extending the shelf life of perishable food products in the food industry. The need for such a solution arises from the increasing demand for environmentally friendly practices in food packaging and the desire to reduce food waste. The study begins with an introduction that sets the context for the research, followed by a detailed background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, and the structure of the thesis. Chapter two presents a comprehensive literature review that explores existing research on sustainable packaging solutions, perishable food products, food preservation techniques, and the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials. The review also discusses consumer preferences and market trends related to sustainable packaging in the food industry. Chapter three outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter also describes the development process for the sustainable packaging solution, incorporating factors such as material selection, design considerations, and testing protocols. Chapter four presents an in-depth discussion of the findings from the research, highlighting the effectiveness of the sustainable packaging solution in extending the shelf life of perishable food products. The chapter also examines the economic feasibility, environmental impact, and consumer acceptance of the developed packaging solution. Finally, chapter five provides a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the thesis, emphasizing the key findings, implications for the food industry, and recommendations for future research. The study concludes that the development of sustainable packaging solutions is crucial for addressing food waste and environmental concerns in the food industry, and offers valuable insights for industry stakeholders and policymakers. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable packaging solutions and their role in enhancing the shelf life of perishable food products. The research findings underscore the importance of adopting environmentally friendly practices in food packaging to promote sustainability and reduce the environmental footprint of the food industry.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of a sustainable packaging solution for extending the shelf life of perishable food products in the food industry" aims to address the pressing issue of food waste and spoilage in the food industry by focusing on the development of innovative and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Perishable food products have a limited shelf life, and improper packaging can lead to significant food waste, economic losses, and environmental impact. The research will delve into the current challenges faced by the food industry in preserving perishable food products and the various factors contributing to food spoilage. By understanding these challenges, the study will aim to develop a sustainable packaging solution that not only extends the shelf life of perishable food products but also reduces the overall environmental footprint of the food industry. Key aspects of the research will include an in-depth literature review to explore existing packaging technologies and their effectiveness in preserving perishable food products. The study will also investigate the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials and explore alternative sustainable materials that can be used for packaging. Furthermore, the project will outline a comprehensive research methodology that will involve experimental testing of different packaging solutions to evaluate their effectiveness in extending the shelf life of perishable food products. This will include testing factors such as moisture control, oxygen permeability, and microbial growth inhibition to determine the best packaging solution for different types of perishable food products. The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the development of sustainable packaging solutions that can help reduce food waste, improve food safety, and promote environmental sustainability in the food industry. By developing innovative packaging solutions, this project aims to contribute towards a more sustainable and efficient food supply chain that benefits both the industry and the environment.