Introduction
Petroleum-based packaging is extensively used in various fieldsdue to its low density and high mechanical and barrier proper-ties [1]. Although many types can be recovered and recycled, in theUnited States, approximately 26 million metric tons of them end upin landfills or the environment annually [2]. Given the increasingenvironmental concerns created by excessive plastic accumulation,as well as consumer demand for healthy, nutritive food productsand extended shelf life, the food and packaging industries have paidincreasing attention to biopolymer and edible films over the lasttwo decades [3]. Edible and biodegradable natural-polymer filmshave been considered attractive alternatives to plastic packagingdue to their excellent biodegradability, biocompatibility and edibil-ity, and the range of their potential applications [4]. Furthermore,they may operate as carriers for incorporating a wide variety ofadditives, such as antioxidants and antimicrobials agents. Sincefood quality and safety are major concerns in the food industry,development of bioactive edible coatings based on biodegradable