Zeolite-based polymer composite films for vegetables and fruits packaging: A review

The deterioration of fruits during production, transportation, and storage has become one of the main challenges in supplying fruits based on consumer requirements. Therefore, the application of suitable packaging containing effective additives to improve the properties of the used film, is very important. In this article, the studies were conducted on the use of Zeolite as an effective additive to improve the properties of polymer packaging films owing to its high porosity and low toxicity. The results showed that the presence of zeolite in a packaging film can lead to the improvement of visual observation and firmness, reduction of weight loss and total soluble solids (TSS), and increase in the pH of the packed fruits. The results obtained from reviewing the literature show that the use of zeolite has different effects on the gas permeation or adsorption through the packaging films which can control the degradative parameters of fruits and vegetables. Surface modifiers can increase the efficiency of zeolites in packaging films which are also evaluated in this article.