Abstract
The perishable nature of plant-based foods, especially fruits and vegetables, is a global issue that presents significant challenges for the economy and the environment, as well as threatening food security. Although plastic-based synthetic materials are commonly applied as packaging materials to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, their use has rigorously polluted the environment and raised concerns about their adverse effects on human and animal health. The use of bioactive ingredients, such as essential oils, plant extracts, and metal oxides, in the development of edible packaging films and coatings is gaining considerable interest in the food industry, among consumers and policymakers. This is due to their bioactive properties, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, which effectively enhance the quality and extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. This chapter discusses the types of bioactive components, methods for fabricating films and coatings, and the recent applications of edible packaging for preserving fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods. Edible packaging can effectively preserve perishable plant foods by controlling degradation processes and extending their shelf life. Further, inclusion of bioactive compounds and other natural additives improves the plant foods appeal and nutrition and has wider acceptance among consumers. Overall, developing edible packaging for plant foods has the potential to reduce global food waste and promote environmental sustainability.