Specific Objectives
A-BLOCK aims to create next-generation antimicrobial food packaging films that slow or prevent microbial growth—reducing food loss across the supply chain and improving food safety.
Our technology combines biomimetic nanopillar patterning with natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agents extracted from Mediterranean agri-waste, delivering enhanced protection for packaged foods.
With the ability to actively control microbial growth on various food products, A-BLOCK represents a major step forward in sustainable, high-performance packaging—addressing food loss challenges from production to consumption.
1. Production of natural antimicrobial/antioxidant agents from agri-waste
To identify and select suitable natural AM/AO agents from agri-waste based on antimicrobial efficacy, sensory compatibility, regulatory compliance, and production costs.
2. Design of AM/AO agent-loaded micro/nanoemulsions and microcapsules
To preserve and enhance the functional properties of selected AM/AO agents by formulating them into stable micro/nanoemulsions and microcapsules using techniques such as microfluidization, high-pressure homogenization, membrane emulsification, spray drying, and freeze drying.
3. Use of diatoms as natural encapsulating and release systems for AM/AO agents
Loading techniques will be optimized to incorporate AM/AO agents into the diatom frustules for controlled release applications.
4. Nanopatterning antimicrobial packaging films with biomimetic nanopillars
To fabricate antimicrobial packaging films featuring sub-100 nm biomimetic nanotopographies on their food-contact surfaces.
5. Integration of AM/AO carriers into packaging materials and material development
To incorporate AM/AO-loaded micro/nanoemulsions, microcapsules, and diatom-based carriers into the packaging films, while maintaining the original films’ thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties.
6. Evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of developed packaging materials
To continuously assess and optimize the antimicrobial performance of packaging candidates across food categories, selecting the top-performing material for each product type, validated through real-food testing against current packaging solutions.
7. Shelf-life testing and sustainability assessment of the developed packaging system
To evaluate the shelf-life extension capability of the developed packaging under real and accelerated storage conditions, and to perform a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare the environmental impacts and benefits (e.g., food waste reduction) against conventional packaging benchmarks.
1. Production of natural antimicrobial/antioxidant agents from agri-waste
To identify and select suitable natural AM/AO agents from agri-waste based on antimicrobial efficacy, sensory compatibility, regulatory compliance, and production costs. The top three agents per food category will be selected after in vitro screening for further development in subsequent stages.
2. Design of AM/AO agent-loaded micro/nanoemulsions and microcapsules
To preserve and enhance the functional properties of selected AM/AO agents by formulating them into stable micro/nanoemulsions and microcapsules using techniques such as microfluidization, high-pressure homogenization, membrane emulsification, spray drying, and freeze drying. Formulations will be optimized based on stability, antimicrobial activity, encapsulation efficiency, and release profiles.
3. Use of diatoms as natural encapsulating and release systems for AM/AO agents
To cultivate high-yield diatom species from Mediterranean bays in Türkiye and produce pure frustule powders. Loading techniques will be optimized to incorporate AM/AO agents into the diatom frustules for controlled release applications.
4. Nanopatterning antimicrobial packaging films with biomimetic nanopillars
To fabricate antimicrobial packaging films featuring sub-100 nm biomimetic nanotopographies on their food-contact surfaces. A combinatorial, design of experiments approach will guide the selection and scalable production of effective nanotopographies, supported by real-time, label-free bacterial interaction studies.
5. Integration of AM/AO carriers into packaging materials and material development
To incorporate AM/AO-loaded micro/nanoemulsions, microcapsules, and diatom-based carriers into BOPP, PE, and PA films through extrusion and coating techniques, while maintaining the original films’ thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties.
6. Evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of developed packaging materials
To continuously assess and optimize the antimicrobial performance of packaging candidates across food categories, selecting the top-performing material for each product type, validated through real-food testing against current packaging solutions.
7. Shelf-life testing and sustainability assessment of the developed packaging system
To evaluate the shelf-life extension capability of the developed packaging under real and accelerated storage conditions, and to perform a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare the environmental impacts and benefits (e.g., food waste reduction) against conventional packaging benchmarks.