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Project title

Multifunctional Smart Edible Coatings for Sustainable Food Industry Application (SmartEdibleCoat)

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Technological University Dublin (TUD)

Lead Applicant

n/a

Project Abstract

The project aims to develop edible smart and active food coatings based on polymers from natural/renewable sources added with nanoparticles and extract of fruit processing wastes. Food-borne illnesses and food waste/loss have been the main challenges facing food industry, consequently the economy. Edible coatings are eco-friendly packaging materials that can protect food against microorganisms, extend shelf life, prevent lipid oxidation/spoilage and maintain food freshness through active properties. Currently, due to COVID-19 pandemic, hygiene, sanitary conditions and health of population have been even more highlighted. So, promising alternatives as active coatings can reduce people�s exposure to food contamination providing consumers with extra protection/safety. An extra aspect, the smart tool, offers reliability from real-time quality control of the coated food. Over few years, food packaging technology has focused on renewable sources, eco-friendly and sustainable solutions. Therefore, non-toxic, biodegradable, active and intelligent coatings can extend food shelf llife of perishable fruits and vegetables and additionally minimize the environmental impact caused by conventional packaging technologies. Besides reach the demand for low-impact solutions with new attributes and low-cost. Proposed research will be based on application of nanotechnology, seaweed, shrimp shells and agri-food wastes to develop coatings able to improve food conservation and �communicate� with the consumer providing updated food quality information, leading to reduction in post-harvest/economic losses of fruits/vegetables and increased supply. The project�s congruence with the 2030 agenda for sustainable development adopted by the United Nations (Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production), the Irish Government�s Priority Areas (Food for Health, Manufacturing Competitiveness, Sustainable Food Production and Processing), the waste framework directive (Directive 2008/98/EC), as well the sustainability pillar of EPA�s research programme 2014-2020 (Sustainability Theme 1: Resource Efficiency; and the sub-themes: resource efficient production, waste as a resource, sustainable and waste treatment options), and DIT�s research alignment, significantly increases the importance of proposed project.

Grant Approved

�110,000.00

Research Hub

n/a

Research Theme

Climate Solutions, Transition Management and Opportunities

Start Date

01/09/2022

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/08/2026