Advancing food preservation with quercetin-based Nanocomposites: Antimicrobial, antioxidant, and controlled-release strategies - A review.

The global food waste crisis, driven by rapid spoilage and oxidative degradation, substantiates the urgent need for sustainable packaging innovations. Though mechanically robust, conventional petroleum-based polymers contribute significantly to environmental pollution due to their non-biodegradability. Quercetin (Qr), a bioactive flavonoid with potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, has emerged as a promising component in next-generation active packaging. This review examines Qr-functionalized nanocomposite films, focusing on their ability to inhibit pathogens (e.g., ) and prevent oxidative damage through radical scavenging and metal chelation. Advanced fabrication methods like solution casting and electrospinning enhance Qr's controlled release, mechanical strength, and UV-shielding capabilities. The synergistic use of biopolymers (e.g., CS, PVA) and nanofillers (e.g., ZnO, Ag NPs) further enhances thermal stability, biodegradability, and antimicrobial performance. Studies show that Qr-based films can extend food shelf life by up to 50 %, significantly reducing microbial loads and oxidative markers. Despite its GRAS status, challenges like production scalability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term stability remain. By integrating nanotechnology with bioactive compounds like Qr, this innovation represents a paradigm shift toward intelligent, eco-friendly packaging aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).