Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents the research conducted on the development of a novel food packaging material with enhanced barrier properties aimed at extending the shelf life of food products. The study addresses the critical need for innovative packaging solutions to combat food waste and improve food safety in the food industry. The research methodology involved a systematic approach to material selection, design, testing, and evaluation to achieve the desired barrier properties for the packaging material. The introduction provides an overview of the current challenges in food packaging and the significance of developing a novel material with enhanced barrier properties. The background of the study explores existing packaging materials and their limitations in preserving food quality and safety. The problem statement highlights the gaps in current packaging solutions and the need for improved barrier properties to extend the shelf life of food products. The objectives of the study are to design and develop a novel food packaging material, evaluate its barrier properties through testing methods, assess its performance in extending the shelf life of food products, and compare it with existing packaging materials. The limitations of the study are acknowledged, including constraints in resources, time, and potential challenges in scaling up the production of the novel material. The scope of the study covers the design and development of the packaging material, testing of barrier properties such as oxygen and moisture resistance, and evaluation of its effectiveness in extending the shelf life of perishable food items. The significance of the study lies in its potential to reduce food waste, improve food safety, and contribute to sustainable practices in the food industry. The literature review explores relevant studies on food packaging materials, barrier properties, and technologies used to extend the shelf life of food products. Key findings from previous research inform the design and development of the novel packaging material in this study. The research methodology includes material selection, design considerations, testing procedures for barrier properties, shelf life evaluation methods, and statistical analysis of results. The study also includes pilot-scale production and testing of the novel packaging material under simulated storage conditions. The discussion of findings presents the results of barrier property testing, shelf life evaluation, and comparison with existing packaging materials. The analysis of data highlights the effectiveness of the novel material in extending the shelf life of food products and its potential applications in the food industry. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the field of food technology by presenting a novel food packaging material with enhanced barrier properties that show promising results in extending the shelf life of food products. The study underscores the importance of innovative packaging solutions in addressing food waste and improving food safety, paving the way for future research and development in sustainable packaging materials.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of a novel food packaging material with enhanced barrier properties for extended shelf life" aims to address the crucial issue of food packaging in the food technology industry. In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the sustainability and efficiency of food packaging materials, especially in terms of preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of perishable food products. This project seeks to contribute to this field by developing a new food packaging material that not only enhances barrier properties but also ensures an extended shelf life for various food products. The focus of this research is on exploring innovative materials and technologies that can improve the current standards of food packaging. By developing a novel packaging material with advanced barrier properties, the project aims to reduce food waste, enhance food safety, and meet the increasing demands for sustainable packaging solutions in the food industry. The proposed material is expected to provide better protection against external factors such as moisture, oxygen, light, and microbial contamination, thereby prolonging the shelf life of packaged food products. The research methodology involves a systematic approach that includes literature review, material selection, experimental testing, and analysis of results. The project will begin with a comprehensive review of existing literature on food packaging materials, barrier properties, and shelf life extension techniques. This will provide a solid foundation for understanding the current challenges and opportunities in the field of food packaging. Subsequently, the project will focus on selecting suitable materials and developing a prototype of the novel packaging material. Various tests and analyses will be conducted to evaluate the barrier properties, mechanical strength, and compatibility of the material with different food products. The performance of the new packaging material will be compared with existing commercial packaging materials to assess its effectiveness in extending the shelf life of perishable foods. The findings of this research are expected to contribute to the advancement of food packaging technology by introducing a new material that offers improved barrier properties and extended shelf life for a wide range of food products. The potential impact of this project includes reducing food waste, enhancing food quality and safety, and promoting sustainable practices in the food industry. Furthermore, the development of a novel food packaging material can open up new opportunities for innovation and collaboration in the field of food technology. Overall, the project "Development of a novel food packaging material with enhanced barrier properties for extended shelf life" aims to address critical challenges in the food packaging industry and provide a sustainable solution that benefits both consumers and the environment. By leveraging innovative materials and technologies, this research endeavors to contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve food packaging systems and ensure the quality and safety of food products for an extended period."