Current developments in coating technologies: Components, workings, and prospects for the food and biomedical industries

Coating technologies are critical to advancing sustainability, safety, and functionality in the food and biomedical industries, yet a notable gap persists in the lack of cross-sectoral comparative analyses that leverage shared technological principles. This review synthesizes recent advancements in coating materials, fabrication techniques, characterization methods, and functional properties for both sectors, highlighting their role in addressing global challenges. In biomedical applications, polymeric coatings like PLGA and bioactive hydroxyapatite enhance implant durability, enable controlled drug release, and improve biocompatibility, while antimicrobial and stimuli-responsive coatings prevent infections and adapt to physiological conditions. In the food industry, edible coatings from polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids extend shelf life and reduce environmental impact, with active coatings incorporating antimicrobial extracts and biodegradable nanocomposites enhancing preservation. Fabrication techniques have evolved from conventional dip and spray methods to advanced layer-by-layer assembly and 3D printing, offering precise control over coating properties. Characterization focuses on adhesion, wettability, and biocompatibility to ensure performance and safety compliance. Innovations include zwitterionic antifouling surfaces and smart packaging indicators, though challenges remain in scalability, toxicity evaluation, and regulatory harmonization. Future directions emphasize AI-driven design, multifunctional self-healing coatings, and circular economy principles to foster sustainability. Cross-sector collaboration promises to accelerate innovation, enabling transformative solutions for personalized medicine and sustainable food systems, addressing regulatory and scalability hurdles through shared expertise.