Biocircular packaging approaches for preserving perishable fruits of the Mediterranean area

The Mediterranean region is a prominent global producer of agricultural food. Nevertheless, throughout the entire supply chain—from cultivation to food distribution and consumption—food waste constitutes a substantial proportion. Furthermore, plant waste residues generated during the cultivation of specific fruits and vegetables must be accounted for. This heterogeneous biomass serves as a valuable source of bioactive compounds and materials, which can be converted into high-performance functional products [1]. Plant waste from perishable fruits typical of the Mediterranean region can be used as the primary source for bioactive molecules. Proper extraction methodologies can allow functional molecules from this agricultural waste to be obtained. Additionally, bio-converter insects, fed with plant waste residues, could serve as a significant Mediterranean source of chitosan, a bio-based polymer with antimicrobial properties [2]. The PLAMINPACK project, funded by national research entities under the PRIMA programme, aims to develop scalable bio-based compostable packaging materials (e.g., films, nets, and trays) derived from plant sources. These materials prevent food spoilage and offer an alternative to commercial fossil-based packaging. Representative agricultural waste from fruit plants selected for this ongoing project includes strawberries, tangerines, and dates. Interestingly, the fruits that will be tested inside the innovative bio-based packaging are strawberries, dates, and tangerines, ensuring a fully circular approach. The project involves nine partners from six different countries: Italy, Morocco, Germany, Greece, Tunisia, and France. This extended consortium is essential for developing a new chain that implements a fully biocircular approach. Coatings based on chitosan [2] and substrates based on biobased polyesters [3] are the materials mainly investigated in the project.