This book examines biotechnological, chemical, and engineering aspects of biopolymers and their blends. It focuses on processing and characterization, biopolymer synthesis and degradation, and new applications. Chapter topics include biodegradable plastics, environmental cleanup, nanocomposite matrices, salient enzymology, techniques for monitoring bioplastics in living cells, and biopolymers for food packaging. Materials discussed include starch and cellulosics (including xylans), chitin, proteins, long-chain fatty acids, mesquite gums, and lignin.