Da Vinha à Embalagem de Alimentos - Materiais bioactivos inovadores de resíduos lignocelulósicos de vinha para embalagem circular de alimentos

The objectives of this research stand out for their innovative approach and ability to address significant challenges. The research will seek new concepts and approaches, avoiding redundancy with previous work and encouraging the exploration of connections between distinct disciplines. Innovation will be an essential criterion to assess the potential impact of the proposed objectives on the academic community and on solving the identified challenges.With this, the objective of the VineToPack project (36 months) is the valorization of the residues from the pruning of the vineyard to develop new biofunctional materials based on nanocellulose using emerging technologies. To achieve the general objective, we describe the specific objectives in detail; they are presented: collect and characterize grapevine pruning residues at zero residue to study their variability and the impact of the composition of this raw material on the amount of bioactive compost; Test different emerging technologies to optimize the simultaneous extraction of bioactive compounds (focus on polyphenols) and cellulose; Characterize the value-added molecules (polyphenols and cellulose) extracted from grapevine pruning residues, including the biological properties and toxicity of these molecules. Optimize the production of nanocellulose fibers (NCF) and nanocellulose crystals (NCC) and characterize the physicochemical properties of nanocellulose. Nanocellulose fibers and nanocellulose crystals, functionalize nanocellulose fibers and nanocellulose crystals, and characterize (physicochemical, biological, and toxicity) the new nanocellulose-based bioactive materials obtained; As well as developing biofunctional packaging of cellulose nanofibers from lignocellulosic waste, which can be used to improve food quality and safety. As well as the implementation of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology and the technological and economic analysis (TEA) of new functionalized nanocellulose-based materials and new food packaging solutions (NFPS). Another specific objective of great importance is the promotion of projects and results in dissemination activities. With this, the proposal contemplates numerous challenges, from the use of raw materials to zero waste, obtaining bioactives, cellulose, and finally the production of biofunctional and biodegradable packaging, as well as evaluating its protective effect in application to meat. Furthermore, this proposal's request aligns with the 2030 Agenda's objectives, specifically goals 2, 9, and 12. The VineToPack project supports SDG 2 by combating hunger, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainable agriculture, aiming to ensure access to nutritious food and boost agricultural productivity. It contributes to SDG 9 by fostering resilient infrastructure, inclusive industrialization, and innovation, promoting sustainable economic growth and technological advancement. Regarding Goal 12, it promotes sustainable consumption and production patterns by managing natural resources efficiently, reducing food waste, managing chemicals and waste, and encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices. The project's ambitious objectives include utilizing emerging methodologies for bioactive and cellulose extraction and developing biofunctional food packaging, particularly for meat products.