Ultraviolet Blocking Films for Food Packaging Applications

Ultraviolet (UV) blocking films are an emerging technology currently being utilized in food packaging applications. UV radiation can cause photochemical reactions in food products, resulting in color, texture, flavor, and nutritional quality degradation. These active films protect the food from photooxidation, maintain the quality attributes, and enhance the food product’s shelf life. Incorporating various UV-blocking agents is the current trend in active food packaging applications. These agents absorb, reflect, or scatter the incident UV light, reducing the transmittance of UV radiation through packaging film. Here, we review the possible cause of food spoilage by photooxidation reactions. The different types of UV absorbers were used in food packaging with the benefits and effectiveness achieved. Furthermore, the mechanism and incorporation techniques of UV-shielding agents in food packaging applications have been reviewed. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of UV-blocking films have been discussed. This article provides a comprehensive explication on the significance of utilizing UV-blocking films for food packaging applications to enhance the shelf life of food products. UV-blocking films are next-generation packaging technology enhancing the shelf life of food products.