Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The food industry faces significant challenges in maintaining the freshness and quality of fresh produce throughout the supply chain. To address this issue, the development of novel food packaging materials offers a promising solution by extending the shelf-life of fresh produce. This thesis focuses on investigating and developing innovative packaging materials that can enhance the preservation and quality of fresh produce, thereby reducing food waste and improving overall sustainability in the food industry. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, highlighting the background of the study, the problem statement, research objectives, limitations, scope, significance of the study, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. The chapter sets the foundation for understanding the importance of developing novel food packaging materials for fresh produce. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review that examines existing research and developments in food packaging materials, preservation techniques, and the impact of packaging on the shelf-life of fresh produce. The review explores various factors influencing food spoilage and degradation, as well as the latest trends and advancements in packaging technology. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, sampling techniques, data collection methods, experimental procedures, and data analysis techniques. The chapter details the steps taken to investigate and develop novel food packaging materials for extending the shelf-life of fresh produce. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the research findings, including the performance evaluation of the developed packaging materials, their impact on the preservation of fresh produce, and the potential benefits for the food industry. The chapter analyzes the results obtained from the experiments and provides insights into the effectiveness of the novel packaging materials. Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing the implications of the research, and suggesting recommendations for future studies and practical applications. The conclusion highlights the significance of developing novel food packaging materials for extending the shelf-life of fresh produce and emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the food industry. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the advancement of food packaging technology by introducing novel materials that offer improved preservation and extended shelf-life for fresh produce. The research findings offer valuable insights for food manufacturers, suppliers, and policymakers seeking sustainable solutions to reduce food waste and enhance the quality and safety of fresh produce throughout the supply chain.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of novel food packaging materials for extended shelf-life of fresh produce" aims to address the critical issue of reducing food waste by enhancing the shelf-life of fresh produce through the development of innovative packaging materials. With the increasing global population and growing concerns about food security, there is a pressing need to improve the efficiency of food preservation methods. One significant aspect of this challenge is the development of packaging materials that can extend the shelf-life of fresh produce, thereby reducing spoilage and waste. The research will focus on the design and testing of novel food packaging materials that possess enhanced barrier properties, antimicrobial activity, and compatibility with different types of fresh produce. By incorporating advanced materials and technologies, such as biodegradable polymers, active packaging systems, and nanocomposites, the project aims to create packaging solutions that can effectively prolong the freshness and quality of fruits and vegetables. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study will explore the current trends and technologies in food packaging, including the use of natural antimicrobial agents, smart packaging systems, and sustainable packaging materials. This background research will provide valuable insights into the existing challenges and opportunities in the field of food packaging for fresh produce. The research methodology will involve experimental work to develop and evaluate the performance of the novel food packaging materials. Various analytical techniques, such as barrier property testing, microbial growth studies, and sensory analysis, will be employed to assess the efficacy of the packaging materials in preserving the quality of fresh produce over an extended period. The findings of the study will be presented and discussed in detail, highlighting the key factors influencing the shelf-life extension of fresh produce using the developed packaging materials. The results will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the novel packaging solutions and their potential applications in the food industry. In conclusion, the project "Development of novel food packaging materials for extended shelf-life of fresh produce" aims to contribute to the advancement of food packaging technology and the reduction of food waste by providing innovative solutions for enhancing the shelf-life of fresh produce. The research outcomes are expected to have significant implications for the food industry, consumers, and the environment, by promoting sustainable practices and improving food preservation methods.