Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The demand for food products with extended shelf life has been increasing in recent years, driven by factors such as globalization, changing consumer preferences, and the need to reduce food waste. In response to this demand, the development of novel food packaging materials has emerged as a key area of research in the field of food technology. This thesis focuses on investigating and developing innovative packaging materials that can effectively extend the shelf life of food products. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, presenting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The literature review in Chapter Two critically examines existing studies on food packaging materials, highlighting key findings, trends, and gaps in the current literature. This chapter also explores various factors influencing the shelf life of food products and the role of packaging materials in preserving food quality. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including research design, data collection methods, sample selection, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations. The chapter also discusses the experimental procedures and testing protocols used to evaluate the performance of novel packaging materials in extending the shelf life of food products. The findings of the research are presented and discussed in Chapter Four, highlighting the effectiveness of the developed packaging materials in prolonging the shelf life of perishable food items. The conclusion and summary in Chapter Five provide a comprehensive overview of the research outcomes, key findings, implications for the food industry, and recommendations for future research. This thesis contributes to the field of food technology by presenting novel packaging materials that offer practical solutions for extending the shelf life of food products while maintaining food safety and quality standards. The research findings have significant implications for food manufacturers, retailers, and consumers, emphasizing the importance of innovative packaging solutions in reducing food waste and enhancing food security. Overall, this thesis serves as a valuable resource for researchers, industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders interested in the development and application of novel food packaging materials to address the challenges of food preservation and sustainability in a rapidly evolving global food market. Word Count 263

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of Novel Food Packaging Materials for Extended Shelf Life" aims to address the pressing need for innovative solutions in the food packaging industry to extend the shelf life of perishable goods. With the increasing demand for convenience and sustainability, there is a critical need to develop packaging materials that can not only preserve food products but also minimize food waste and environmental impact. This research project will focus on exploring the development of novel food packaging materials that offer enhanced barrier properties, antimicrobial functionalities, and sustainability features to extend the shelf life of various food products. By leveraging advances in material science, nanotechnology, and biomimicry, the project seeks to create packaging solutions that can better protect food from external factors such as moisture, oxygen, light, and microbial contamination. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing technologies, materials, and techniques used in food packaging and preservation. This review will provide insights into current challenges and opportunities in the field, guiding the development of novel packaging materials. The project will then proceed to the experimental phase, where various formulations and manufacturing processes will be explored to create innovative packaging materials. These materials will be evaluated for their barrier properties, mechanical strength, biodegradability, and antimicrobial efficacy to ensure they meet the desired criteria for extending the shelf life of food products. Furthermore, the research will investigate the environmental impact of the novel packaging materials through life cycle assessments to ensure they are sustainable and eco-friendly. By considering the entire life cycle of the packaging materials, from production to disposal, the project aims to develop solutions that minimize resource consumption and waste generation. The findings of this research project are expected to contribute significantly to the field of food packaging technology by providing new insights and practical solutions for extending the shelf life of perishable goods. The development of novel packaging materials with improved performance and sustainability features will not only benefit the food industry but also address critical issues such as food waste reduction and environmental conservation. In conclusion, the project "Development of Novel Food Packaging Materials for Extended Shelf Life" represents a timely and important effort to innovate in the food packaging sector. By focusing on creating advanced materials that offer enhanced preservation properties and sustainability benefits, this research aims to make a meaningful impact on the way we package and protect food products in a more efficient, effective, and environmentally friendly manner.