Eating the problem away. Polish scientists develop edible, compostable food packaging as an alternative to plastic

Nonetheless, we can still make a difference. Food packaging could be made from biodegradable, compostable, and even edible materials. Scientists at the Warsaw University of Life Sciences are suggesting such alternative solutions.

The research team led by Dr. Sabina Galus, a professor at the Faculty of Food Engineering and Production Organization at the Warsaw University of Life Sciences, is developing packaging made from biopolymers. These include plant-based biopolymers like apple and citrus pectin, sodium alginate, and soy protein isolate and animal-based ones like whey protein isolate and pork or beef gelatin.

These packages are entirely edible and manufactured from substances intended for consumption. However, it doesn't necessarily mean they must always be consumed. They are fully biodegradable and compostable, making them environmentally friendly. They can come in various forms, from sachets for storing dry granular products and packaging films to packaging that's an integral part of the product, like casings or glazing layers.

"The difference between film and the edible coating lies in the production method. Both forms can be created using the same mixture of ingredients, but films are generally formed on flat surfaces and subsequently removed, while coatings are directly crafted on the product as its integral part. Coatings can either be removed from the product or naturally break apart during washing or processing," explained Professor Galus.

An example of such packaging is sachets for instant coffee, which you can stir into hot water with the product. The sachet then dissolves. Working with scientists in Portugal, the team also undertook research during which they packaged meat in a film enriched with antimicrobial compounds: zinc oxide nanoparticles. They discovered that such packaging helps extend the shelf life of the product.

These edible sachets can also package oil, sugar, bouillon cubes, and other products.

Simultaneously, the research team is exploring using vegetable waste to create environmentally friendly packaging. They found that waste from green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, and beets, among other things, is suitable for this purpose.

The scientists aim to find the best substitute for plastic packaging. They hope their research will result in introducing their products to the market.

The packaging developed by the team will be entirely environmentally friendly. It will quickly biodegrade if discarded, but it can also be added to compost or consumed. These won't exert a negative impact on consumer health. Further enrichment of these packages with various active substances will prolong the shelf life of the products they are used for, as well as improve food quality. This strategy aims to prevent wastage.