The Regenerative Loop: A Systems Review of Waste Valorization, Nanomaterials, and Policy Alignment in Circular Food Packaging
Tonay, Ayse Nur, Adal, Samiye, Ercan, Songul SahIn, OztekIn, Sebahat, CelebI, Yasemin, Caliskan Koc, Gulsah
The global plastic crisis necessitates urgent adoption of the Circular Bioeconomy (CE), demanding a new analytical framework that integrates scientific advancement with policy and market viability. This systems review establishes a critical "Regenerative Loop" model, holistically synthesizing the convergence of materials science, agro-industrial waste valorization (e.g. whey, seafood residues), and environmental footprint analysis. Beyond a descriptive summary, the study critically evaluates how nanotechnology, such as Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs), successfully bridges the performance gap between biopolymers and synthetic plastics. We analyze the technical trade-offs in developing smart, active packaging systems that provide enhanced barrier properties and real-time freshness monitoring while maintaining resource circularity. A significant portion of the analysis is dedicated to reconciling contradictory Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data and addressing systemic barriers to industrial scale-up. By aligning technological innovations with key regulatory frameworks (e.g. European Green Deal, UN SDGs), this review provides a strategic roadmap for overcoming economic and policy-driven fragmentation. This interdisciplinary perspective offers essential insights for transforming the food packaging value chain from a linear model into a truly regenerative ecosystem.
- Journal
- FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL
- Year
- 2026
- ISSN
- 8755-9129
- eISSN
- 1525-6103
- DOI
- 10.1080/87559129.2026.2651250
- WoS UID
- WOS:001737094500001