The EcoPackLab project aims to create a sustainable and innovative packaging system for quality improvement of packed food during its storage. The project makes use of both University of Bologna laboratories and industrial supply chains, by means of an integrated and interdisciplinary approach on quality, safety, sustainability and logistics efficiency, that takes advantages of integrated and complementary knowledge in the various aspects of the food packaging area.
The replacement of oil-based materials by eco-friendly solutions (derived from renewable resources, biodegradable, compostable) is attracting much interest in the food industry packaging. However, although such goal is largely agreed due to environmental and social needs, this substitution is hindered by several factors:
All these constraints have significantly limited the production of eco-friendly polymers suitable as food packaging materials.
Another key aspect is related to the production of active packaging solutions that can contribute to reduce the microorganisms growth and/or other kinds of deteriorative phenomena in foods, thus reducing and/or avoiding the use of preservatives in their formulations.
EcoPackLab aims to create a sustainable and innovative packaging system for quality improvement of packed food during its shelf-life. The project makes use of both University of Bologna laboratories and industrial supply chains, by means of an integrated and interdisciplinary approach on quality, safety, sustainability and logistics efficiency, that takes advantages of integrated and complementary knowledge in the various aspects of the food packaging area.
The plurality of skills in EcoPackLab will also promote and improve the professional qualification of the team of young researchers involved.
The outcomes of the project are the implementation of demonstrators and technological solutions able to obtain a novel eco-compatible and active food packaging solution, characterized by performances able to increase stability, quality and prolong shelf-life of selected food products, while minimizing use of food preservatives and processing. Consequently, a benefit on reduction of food waste and losses is expected.
The prototype machine will be able to produce films that may be tested by involved companies, through their own equipment.
Partner companies may validate the new eco-friendly packaging solutions, in their industrial production. Obtained feedback will be used for improvement and optimization actions.
The main output of this project will be the fabrication of a sustainable package system, thanks to the collaboration between research and industry. This project will contribute also to the growth of new technical and professional skills in a perfect synergy between these two areas.
The project is fully integrated in the food production system of the Emilia-Romagna Region, including many related processing and economic activities (production of plastic materials and containers, food packaging machines and equipment; activities related to food logistics).