A groundbreaking innovation from the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is set to transform sustainable food preservation practices. Researchers at UAEU have secured a United States patent for an edible, biodegradable food-preservation film crafted entirely from natural materials. This development addresses critical challenges in food waste reduction and plastic pollution, aligning perfectly with the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051.
The patent, US 12,495,808 B2, granted on December 16, 2025, highlights UAEU's leadership in applied research. With the UAE wasting an estimated 3.27 million tonnes of food annually—costing around $3.5 billion—this film offers a practical solution to extend shelf life and minimize losses during storage and transport.
🛡️ The Science Behind UAEU's Edible Biodegradable Film
The core of this innovation lies in its simple yet effective composition: primarily aloe vera extract (85-96 wt%), chitosan (2-10 wt%), and lactic acid (2-5 wt%). Chitosan (pronounced KY-toh-san), a natural polysaccharide derived from chitin in crustacean shells, provides antimicrobial properties by disrupting bacterial cell membranes. Aloe vera gel, extracted from the plant's leaves, contributes antioxidants, moisture retention, and film-forming capabilities due to its polysaccharides and phenolic compounds.
Step-by-step, the production process involves: (1) extracting and sterilizing aloe vera gel at 65-80°C; (2) dissolving chitosan in a lactic acid aqueous solution (0.5-1.5% w/v); (3) mixing in a 35-45 vol% aloe vera to 55-65 vol% chitosan ratio; (4) casting the solution into thin films; and (5) drying at room temperature. The resulting transparent film acts as a semi-permeable barrier, regulating gas exchange (O2 and CO2), reducing water loss, and inhibiting microbial growth.
Laboratory tests confirm excellent mechanical strength (tensile up to relevant values), thermal stability up to 200°C, and low water vapor permeability (0.082 g/m² h Pa mm for optimal blends). When applied to figs (Ficus carica), it significantly cut weight loss and spoilage over 28 days at 2°C.
Key Inventors and UAEU's Research Excellence
Leading the team is Dr. Zienab F.R. Ahmed, Associate Professor in the Department of Integrative Agriculture at UAEU's College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, alongside Navjot Kaur and Prof. Abdel-Hamid I. Mourad from Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Their interdisciplinary collaboration exemplifies UAEU's strength in translational research.
UAEU ranks first in the UAE and 67th globally for US utility patents granted in 2025, with 57 patents—a jump from 90th in prior years. This edible film is part of a portfolio spanning sustainability, health, and tech. For aspiring researchers, explore higher ed research jobs or career advice for academics at UAEU and beyond.
Prof. Mourad notes, "The film possesses excellent mechanical and thermal properties, resistant to microbial growth, making it ideal for diverse horticultural packaging." Dr. Ahmed adds, "Unlike synthetic plastics, it's food-safe and eco-friendly."
Addressing UAE's Food Waste Crisis
The UAE aims to halve food loss and waste by 2030, per its baseline study launching results in 2026. Food constitutes 38-39% of municipal waste, spiking during Ramadan. Globally, 1.3 billion tons are wasted yearly, projected to 2.2 billion by 2025. This film tackles post-harvest losses (10-40% for fruits/veggies), preserving quality without chemicals.
- Reduces respiration rates and ethylene production.
- Inhibits pathogens like E. coli and fungi.
- Biodegrades naturally, cutting plastic pollution.
In UAE's hot climate, where produce transport is challenging, this innovation supports local farms and imports. Link to UAE's food security via UAE higher ed opportunities.
Chitosan and Aloe Vera: Natural Powerhouses Explained
Chitosan, deacetylated chitin, is FDA-approved as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). It forms cationic films that bind to anionic microbial surfaces, preventing adhesion. Aloe vera gel (99% water, mucilaginous polysaccharides) hydrates produce, seals micro-wounds, and delivers phenolics for oxidation control.
Combined, they synergize: FTIR shows hydrogen bonding; SEM reveals smooth, amorphous structure. Benefits include 17-30% antioxidant scavenging (DPPH/ABTS), vs. pure components.
Real-world: Coated figs retained firmness, color, and reduced microbes by significant margins post-storage.
Sustainable Packaging Trends and UAEU's Edge
Edible films market surges with biodegradable demand; 2026 trends emphasize bio-based barriers amid EPR regulations. UAEU's film outshines starch/PLA alternatives in edibility and cost (natural sourcing).
Compared to Apeel's lipid coatings or Notpla's seaweed, UAEU's uses abundant aloe/chitosan, ideal for Middle East. Official WAM report details impact.
UAE Higher Education Driving Food Tech Innovation
UAE universities like Khalifa's Food Security Center and UAEU lead sustainability. UAEU's patents support UAE Food Innovation Hub, fostering agri-tech. This aligns with COP28 Declaration on sustainable agriculture.
Check Khalifa's patent surge or UAE uni jobs.
Challenges, Solutions, and Real-World Applications
- Scalability: Low-cost materials; pilot on figs scalable to tomatoes, berries.
- Regulatory: GRAS status eases approval.
- Economics: Cuts losses 20-50%, per similar coatings.
Stakeholders: Farmers gain longer market windows; retailers reduce spoilage; consumers get fresher produce. Future: Commercial trials via UAEU tech transfer.
View full patentFuture Outlook: Commercialization and Global Impact
UAEU eyes partnerships for mass production, targeting UAE's 50% waste cut. Globally, edible films could slash 10% post-harvest losses ($1T/year). UAEU's ranking boosts UAE higher ed profile.
Explore scholarships for food tech studies or faculty positions in UAE.
Photo by Sodium Carbonate on Unsplash
Conclusion: Pioneering Sustainable Futures
UAEU's patent exemplifies how UAE universities drive innovation for food security and sustainability. This edible film not only preserves food but inspires actionable change. Join the conversation—visit Rate My Professor, search higher ed jobs, or get career advice. For researchers eyeing UAEU, check university jobs and post a job.
Read the full study: Aloe vera/Chitosan Edible Film paper.
