Comparative life cycle analysis of a biodegradable multilayer film and a conventional multilayer film for fresh meat modified atmosphere packaging – and effectively accounting for shelf-life

Life cycle analyses of novel food packaging materials do not often account for the environmental impact a change in shelf-life, which can result misleading comparisons. This paper established methodology comparative life analyses, whereby direct effects lidding films were compared whilst ensuring indirect wasted portion remained stable. Global warming potential and non-renewable energy use analysed conventional (low-density polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol) versus biodegradable (polyhydroxyalkanoate/butenediol multilayer film modified atmosphere minced beef. Two methodologies investigated. The first (metric one) changed barrier layer thickness to match carbon dioxide transmission rate with that film. second two) predicted by mathematical model ensure same shelf-life as Using metric two over one resulted 1) thinner 2) 2.3 times lower global potential. When using sugar beet biopolymer feedstock current UK disposal system, had 135% higher than By incorporating waste products better farming practices, could be up 92% work demonstrates how incorporated into importance accounting it, particular when evaluating biodegradables have permeabilities.