A Review on Natural Fiber-Reinforced Biodegradable Composites for Sustainable Solid Food Packaging: Focus on Barkcloth and Velvetleaf Fiber

Tukamuhebwa Richard*, Milon Selvam Dennison**, Joseph Valerian Tesha***
*-*** Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Ishaka-Bushenyi, Uganda.
Periodicity:July - September'2025

Abstract

The growing environmental and health concerns associated with petroleum-based plastic packaging have intensified global efforts to develop sustainable alternatives. This review examines the application of natural fiber-based composites for solid food packaging, focusing on their environmental benefits, material properties, and potential to replace conventional plastics. In particular, the research investigates the creation and characterization of a biodegradable composite made from Ficus natalensis (barkcloth) and Abutilon theophrasti (velvetleaf) fiber, with a matrix based on cassava starch. These materials present promising solutions for improving food safety, prolonging shelf life, and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. The rise in consumer demand for single-use packaging that accommodates minimally processed and ready-to-eat foods has created substantial opportunities to reduce plastic pollution through innovations in natural fiber-based composites. This paper examines the documented research on different fiber orientations in natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites, emphasizing their relevance for sustainable food packaging applications.

Keywords

Natural fibers, Biodegradable, Velvetleaf, Barkcloth, Packaging.

How to Cite this Article?

Richard, T., Dennison, M. S., and Tesha, J. V. (2025). A Review on Natural Fiber-Reinforced Biodegradable Composites for Sustainable Solid Food Packaging: Focus on Barkcloth and Velvetleaf Fiber. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(2), 51-66.

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