Kaleum Meaney

1 Introduction The global population is expected to increase to approximately 10.3 billion by the mid-2080s, corresponding to a rise of about 25.6% relative to 2024 estimates [1]. This rapid population expansion intensifies pressure on global food systems and underscores the growing challenge of ensuring long-term food security.

1 Introduction Rising petroleum prices and heightened environmental awareness have accelerated efforts to substitute fossil-based polymers in manufacturing. In recent years, plastic waste, particularly from single-use products, has resulted in substantial ecological harm, adversely affecting ecosystems and wildlife on a global scale [1]. Consequently, biopolymers have attracted increasing interest as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics.