Edible Films and Coatings Based on Biopolymers

A special issue of Coatings (ISSN 2079-6412).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2026

Special Issue Editors


E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Parque Estacao Biologica, Brasília 70770-917, DF, Brazil
Interests: nanotechnolohy; nanobiotechnology; nanofoods; nanoagriculture; bioengineering; edibles films; green nanotechnology; nanomaterials; nanoparticles; food printing
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Parque Estacao Biologica, Brasília 70770-917, DF, Brazil
Interests: nanotechnolohy; nanobiotechnology; nanofoods; nanoagriculture; nanomedicine; edibles films; green nanotechnology; nanomaterials; nanoparticles; nanogreen

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue aims to gather high-quality research and review articles that explore the latest advancements in the development, characterization, and application of edible films and coatings derived from biopolymers. In an era increasingly focused on sustainability and reducing plastic waste, these materials represent a promising frontier in food preservation, packaging, and even biomedical applications. The issue will focus on innovative formulations, functional enhancements, and the practical efficacy of these systems in extending shelf-life, improving food quality, and providing novel solutions for various industries.

The scope of this issue encompasses the entire development cycle of edible films and coatings, from the synthesis and extraction of novel biopolymers to their final application and assessment of performance and safety. We welcome contributions that address both fundamental and applied research aspects.

- Novel Biopolymer Sources: Exploration of new or underutilized polysaccharides (e.g., starches, chitosan, pectin, pullulan), proteins (e.g., whey, zein, gelatin, gluten), and lipids for film formation.

- Functional Properties: Enhancement of mechanical strength, barrier properties (against water vapor, oxygen, UV), and thermal stability.
- Active and Smart Packaging: Incorporation of bioactive compounds such as antioxidants, antimicrobials, vitamins, and natural pigments to create active systems. Development of pH-sensitive or freshness-indicating intelligent coatings.
- Nanotechnology Integration: Use of nanofillers (nanoclays, cellulose nanocrystals, nanoemulsions) and nanostructures to improve matrix properties and functionality.
- Characterization Techniques: Advanced physical, chemical, mechanical, and microbiological characterization of films and coatings.
- Application Studies: In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating efficacy in food models (fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, plant-based foods), pharmaceutical coatings, or other relevant areas.
- Sustainability and Life Cycle Assessment: Evaluation of the environmental impact, biodegradability, and compostability of these materials.

We look forward to receiving your submission.

Dr. Luciano Paulino Silva
Dr. Cínthia Caeta Bonatto
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Coatings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • biopolymer films
  • edible coatings
  • active packaging
  • nanocomposites
  • sustainable packaging

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Published Papers

This special issue is now open for submission.
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