Biopolymers for Food Applications
A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Applications".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 April 2026 | Viewed by 17
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Biopolymers – naturally derived macromolecules such as proteins, polysaccharides, and nucleic acids – represent a cornerstone of sustainable material design with unparalleled biocompatibility and eco-functionality. These materials uniquely combine natural renewability, intrinsic biodegradability, and structural versatility to enable advanced applications across food science. Recent breakthroughs leverage biopolymers offering solutions for shelf-life extension, bioactive encapsulation, and plant-based food innovation. The issue bridges material innovation with food science, covering:
▶︎ Synthesis: Sustainable fabrication of biopolymer colloids
▶︎ Functionality: Rheology, encapsulation efficiency, barrier properties
▶︎ Applications: Nutraceutical delivery, plant-based analogs, shelf-life extension
▶︎ Sustainability: Compostable gels/emulsions and circular economy strategies
This collection addresses global demands for safer, smarter, and eco-functional food systems.
Dr. Jian Wang
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- biopolymers
- food-grade emulsions
- hydrogels
- biopolymer composites
- delivery systems
- edible coatings
- active packaging
- sustainable food systems
- nanostructured colloids
- 3D food printing
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