Sustainable and antimicrobial packaging materials for meat

Antimicrobial meat packaging for a longer shelf life

As part of the MATE4MEAT project, we are developing biobased food packaging for meat that has functional properties to extend shelf life. To strengthen the sustainability aspect, the focus is on the use of waste materials. A particularly long shelf-life is achieved by incorporating antimicrobial agents into the new packaging materials, which are also derived from residual materials. This provides a high level of product protection while avoiding waste. The transnational MATE4MEAT project thus contributes both to reducing the use of petroleum-based plastics and to preventing food waste.

Application tests for sustainable antimicrobial meat packaging

The project is intended for use in vacuum and modified atmosphere meat packaging. Subsequent transfer to other applications is possible. The packaging concepts developed will be tested under real conditions and comprehensively characterised with regard to their conformity. In addition to assessing the economic viability and market potential, the project will also carry out life cycle assessments of the packaging materials and evaluate their recyclability.

As a sub-project, Fraunhofer IVV is responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of the various development stages under laboratory conditions and in realistic applications, as well as testing the packaging samples for compliance with food legislation.

The Mate4Meat project is a collaboration between research institutions and companies from six different countries.