Fuente: Food Bioactives The growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly food packaging solutions has driven extensive research into biodegradable materials and innovative additives. Among these, fungal-derived compounds have gained attention for their antimicrobial properties, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. This chapter explores the potential of fungal additives as environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic preservatives and conventional, nonbiodegradable packaging materials. Key fungal-derived components, including polysaccharides (e.g., chitosan and glucans), enzymes, and secondary metabolites, will be examined, with a focus on their incorporation into biodegradable polymer matrices. These additives not only enhance packaging functionality such as mechanical strength, barrier properties, and antimicrobial activity, it also contributes towards reducing plastic waste. Additionally, the chapter delves into the mechanisms by which fungal additives exert antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, highlighting their role in extending the shelf life of packaged foods. Safety and regulatory considerations will be discussed to ensure compliance with food safety standards. The chapter will also present recent advancements in fungal additive research, including novel extraction, purification, and characterization techniques, along with innovations in fungal-based nanocomposites. Case studies of successful applications in food packaging will further illustrate the practical and commercial potential of these materials.