Abstract: Storage and preservation techniques can play an important role in extending the shelf life of perishable foods. With consumers’ increasing awareness of environmental protection and safety, edible antibacterial packaging is highly favored because of its natural source and non-toxic nature. This paper introduces in detail the substrate materials, antibacterial agents and methods used to prepare edible antibacterial films, summarizes the application of edible antibacterial films in the food packaging field, and discusses future trends in the development of antibacterial food packaging. We hope that this review will provide a reference for reduction in white pollution and the recovery and utilization of agricultural and industrial wastes, and provide a scientific and theoretical basis for food storage and preservation.

Key words: edible film; antibacterial function; food packaging; preservation; applied research