Active Nanostructured Food Packaging Based on Photocatalytic Polyoxometalates for Spoilage Detection, Microbial Inhibition, and Self-Cleaning after Disposal

The escalating environmental pollution from non-degradable food packaging and the global burden of foodborne illnesses necessitate innovative, multifunctional materials. This study reports on the design and fabrication of an active food packaging system based on a polymeric nanocomposite incorporated with photocatalytic polyoxometalate (POM) nano-clusters. The aim was to engineer a single platform capable of simultaneous real-time spoilage detection, microbial inhibition, and post-consumer self-cleaning. The POM-based nanofillers were synthesized and embedded within a biodegradable polymer matrix. Results demonstrated that the nanocomposite exhibited a rapid colorimetric response to biogenic amines, serving as an effective freshness indicator. Upon exposure to ambient light, the material generated reactive oxygen species (ROS), achieving a significant reduction in pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, post-consumer disposal triggered a photocatalytic degradation mechanism, breaking down the polymer matrix into benign byproducts under simulated environmental irradiation, thus preventing persistent waste. In conclusion, this POM-based architecture offers a synergistic approach to enhancing food safety, extending shelf-life, and mitigating plastic pollution, presenting a transformative step toward sustainable and intelligent packaging solutions.

کلیدواژه ها:

Active packaging ، Polyoxometalates ، Nanocomposite ، Photocatalytic activity ، Spoilage detection ، Antimicrobial properties ، Self-cleaning ، Biodegradable polymers