Sustainable Packaging Principles and Technologies

The course contributes to the realization of the bachelor's degree program by providing students with the terminological and technical tools necessary to make informed choices regarding materials and technologies for packaging that ensure environmental sustainability and give access to safe, high-quality food products. The lectures and case study analysis will provide the fundamental knowledge needed to interpret and apply, with a suitable level of autonomy, both mandatory and voluntary regulations related to food contact materials, with a particular focus on the sustainability requirements that the food packaging sector must meet. Additionally, the course will examine how these regulations can contribute to promoting sustainable practices throughout the entire product lifecycle, ensuring food quality and consumer safety.
The course is closely integrated with other courses in the program, particularly those addressing topics related to Food Processes and Quality Management.

The course aims to complete the student's education with knowledge and tools to deepen the theoretical, technological, and regulatory aspects essential for understanding the functions of packaging operations in the food industry, with a focus on environmental and social sustainability. The training will therefore be enriched by the acquisition of both theoretical and practical knowledge regarding the food safety, technological suitability, and environmental impact of materials and objects in contact with food throughout its preparation, distribution, and storage. The student will also be able to understand the principles underlying the circularity of materials in food packaging and select the most sustainable packaging solution.