NOVAPACK

The main goal of the NOVAPACK project is the development of novel and cost- competitive antimicrobial coatings, films and bio-based packaging based on bio- based and biodegradable products, to reduce food waste and plastic, while improving Mediterranean food products' shelf-life and safety. Specifically, NOVAPACK will develop different extracts ranges (e.g., bioactive compounds, soluble polysaccharides, and lignocellulosic materials) through the application of integrative upcycling strategies of F&V losses and by-products, produced at the food supply chain. The extracts with antimicrobial and antifungal activities and antioxidant properties will be used in the development of active food coatings and films, and natural-coloured extracts and pH indicators will functionalize the biodegradable packaging. To develop newly designed food products with enhanced shelf-life, quality and health-related beneficial properties, the bioactive coatings will be applied upon to the most perishable foods (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, red berries and tomatoes) increasing their resilience to contamination, increasing water retention capacity and increasing food shelf-life. The biodegradable films and packaging combined with bioactive extracts will be applied to perishable animal products (e.g., sliced cheese and ham) synergistically acting in the reduction of food losses, food spoilage and the use of plastic, leading to better consumer safety features aligned with relevant standards.