#biodegradable food container

[ecolatess]

Why Biodegradable Food Containers Are Essential for Catering and Events

In today’s world, eco-friendly options are no longer a luxury but a necessity—especially for catering and events, where single-use containers are often used in high quantities. Biodegradable food containers provide a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic packaging, offering a way to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing convenience or quality. Let’s explore why biodegradable food containers have become essential for catering services and event planning, and how they support a greener, more responsible approach to event waste.

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Food Containers

Catering and event services often rely heavily on disposable containers, plates, and utensils for ease of use and clean-up. However, traditional plastic containers can take hundreds of years to decompose and often end up polluting landfills, oceans, and ecosystems. In response to this environmental issue, biodegradable food containers offer an alternative that decomposes naturally, helping to reduce waste and the carbon footprint associated with events.

Benefits of Biodegradable Food Containers for Catering

Eco-Friendly Disposal Options

Biodegradable containers are designed to break down naturally under composting conditions. For event organizers, this means less post-event waste heading to landfills. Instead, composting facilities can turn used containers into organic matter that benefits the soil, creating a full-circle solution that minimizes environmental impact.

Positive Brand Image for Caterers and Event Planners

Using biodegradable food containers demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious clients and attendees. For catering businesses and event planners, offering green packaging can set them apart from competitors, creating a reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking service. Sustainability is becoming a top priority for many event organizers, who now seek out vendors that align with their eco-friendly values.

Compliance with Eco-Friendly Event Standards

Many cities and event venues have started implementing zero-waste or low-waste policies, which often include mandates for eco-friendly materials. By choosing biodegradable food containers, caterers can meet these requirements seamlessly, ensuring compliance without altering service quality. This is particularly important as more cities adopt regulations to reduce single-use plastics, making biodegradable options a smart long-term investment.

Health and Safety for Attendees

Unlike traditional plastic containers, biodegradable food containers are often made from natural, non-toxic materials, which means they are less likely to leach harmful chemicals into food. This is especially beneficial for events where hot foods are served, as some plastics can release toxins when heated. Using biodegradable containers helps ensure a safer dining experience for attendees and reduces the risk of food contamination.

Types of Biodegradable Food Containers for Events

Sugarcane Bagasse Container

Made from the fibrous residue left after extracting sugar from sugarcane, bagasse containers are sturdy, heat-resistant, and suitable for both hot and cold dishes. They’re ideal for catering large buffets or plated meals.

Cornstarch-Based PLA Containers

Polylactic Acid (PLA) containers resemble traditional plastics but are fully compostable. They’re suitable for cold foods like salads and desserts and offer a clear, professional look for upscale events.

Key Considerations When Choosing Biodegradable Containers for Events

Durability for Food Types and Temperatures

Different materials have varying levels of durability, especially under high heat or moisture. For instance, bagasse is ideal for hot foods as it resists heat without deforming, while PLA is better for cold items. Choosing the right container for each dish ensures a seamless dining experience.

Capacity for Volume and Portion Control

Large events often involve significant portions or multiple-course meals. Choosing the correct size and type of container ensures proper portion control while reducing the risk of spillage or waste.

Compostable vs. Biodegradable Options

Not all biodegradable containers are compostable in the same conditions. Some materials, like PLA, require industrial composting facilities. Event planners should check if local composting options are available to ensure proper disposal of these containers after the event.

Biodegradable Containers and the Future of Sustainable Events

The use of biodegradable containers is not just a trend but a shift toward a more sustainable approach in the event and catering industry. As more clients demand eco-friendly options, catering businesses that embrace biodegradable containers can expect a competitive edge in the marketplace. Additionally, these containers contribute to the larger goal of reducing single-use plastic waste, supporting a cleaner, healthier planet.

Innovations in biodegradable packaging are also on the rise, with manufacturers constantly developing more durable, versatile, and affordable options. In the future, we may see even more advanced biodegradable solutions tailored specifically to the needs of large-scale events and catering.

Conclusion

For catering services and event planners, biodegradable food containers are no longer just an option—they’re an essential choice for any business looking to reduce its environmental impact. Offering benefits that range from eco-friendly disposal to improved client perception, biodegradable containers align with the growing demand for sustainable practices. As more events and venues adopt waste-reduction policies, biodegradable containers will continue to play a vital role in the transition toward greener gatherings. By choosing biodegradable food containers, the catering industry can not only enhance its service but also make a meaningful difference to the environment.

[packagingbypolymer]

Innovative Food Packaging Ideas Every Brand Should Be Aware of

Since food packaging plays an appropriate role in the food industry, trends in food packaging are always changing. Food packaging has undergone a massive transformation in recent years. This is due to the fact that more people are purchasing large amounts of groceries in the flesh or through online delivery services. 

There are now many different types of food packaging and takeaway containers available, such as plastic takeaway containers, biodegradable food containers in bulk, and many more. Modern technology has made a number of environmentally friendly packaging and takeaway options available to the working class.

To stay competitive in the food industry, however, certain packaging trends must be addressed. These are the most important food packaging trends that will be thoroughly examined in this post.

Transparency is Key in Food Packaging:

Nowadays, most consumers will only buy a recently released product if and when it has clear product information. because they wish to be conscious of their diet. Being aware of what is happening in your stomach is perfectly acceptable. Even though the majority of food packaging includes ingredient information, it can be difficult to read the fine print.

On the other hand, consumers will be better equipped to make informed decisions if food packaging uses clean labelling. Clear labelling of the product's ingredients and transparent packaging are essential. Clean labelling can help customers make thoughtful purchases and improve your brand identity.

The Rise of Personalized Food Packaging:

Food packaging now heavily incorporates customisation, which is also one of the biggest trends. Leading brands are now personalising their wholesale plastic takeaway containers with printed names. In fact, it is currently becoming an industry leader.

To increase brand recall and appeal, manual variation could involve using customised bags, boxes, stickers, and even gift tags.

The future of food packaging design and development promises customised packaging that closes the gap between consumer needs and product reality. Consumers expect their food and snacks to meet their individual and ever-changing needs, and innovative packaging design with a personal touch can help brands meet this challenge.

The Shift Towards Eco-Friendly Packaging:

Eco-friendly packaging is one of the most significant packaging trends that will impact the industry in 2025.

From banning the use of plastic bags at supermarkets to replacing plastic straws with paper straws in restaurants,. Many eco-friendly packaging alternatives are making their mark on the market.

Most food packaging companies now use biodegradable food containers instead of plastic. Single-use plastics have also gained popularity as an alternative. Not only has it been shown to be a safer packaging material for use during the pandemic, but it is also a transit-safe plastic takeaway container.

The Demand for Frozen Food Packaging:

Applications for frozen food packaging have been partially integrated into the food packaging sector in particular.

This suggests that there is a significant market for frozen food packaging materials such as skin film, IQF polyethylene, glass, aluminium, flexible bags, lidding films, wax-coated cardboard, shrink film, and high barrier thermoforming film. Cardboard, paperboard, shrink film, skin packs, and other materials are frequently used to package frozen foods.

The Power of Simple and Clean Packaging Designs:

One of the major developments in food packaging design is minimalist design. A small portion of the food packaging sector has shifted from eye-catching and chaotic designs to straightforward labelling and packaging.

In addition to highlighting the product's worth, this packaging trend avoids overpowering consumers with lavish images and artwork. A minimalist and simple design gives the product a new appearance. The food packaging bags appear tidy, clean, uncomplicated, and revitalising. But it also lowers the cost of your production process.

Boost Your Brand with Innovative Packaging:

You can experiment with plastic takeaway containers and food packaging bags as different food packaging trends come and go. You can appeal to potential customers and the target market by doing this with your product packaging. No matter what category of packaging you choose, make sure your food packaging connects to your offline customers online and makes your overall product marketing. Choosing more modern and eco-friendly food packaging services as soon as possible is imperative for food preparation services. In addition to improving customer satisfaction, this would help your business increase sales because modern food packaging services are essential.

Ready to elevate your brand? Discover how our innovative and eco-friendly packaging solutions can transform your products and attract more customers.

[awesomeifidosaysomyself]

call me a radical but actually i think that having a phone shouldn't be a requirement to get food at any university location

[greenwichpackaging]

Eco-Friendly Bagasse Clamshell Lunch Box – Premium Quality

Discover the eco-friendly solution for your takeout needs with Greenwich Packaging's Premium Bagasse Clamshell Lunch Box. Made from sustainable bagasse, these 5x7 inch boxes are designed for durability and convenience, perfect for restaurants, catering services, and meal prep. Each pack contains 50 clamshells, ideal for serving a variety of dishes while minimizing your carbon footprint. The compostable material ensures a greener option without sacrificing quality or performance. Choose our premium lunch boxes for an eco-conscious choice that supports a sustainable future. Elevate your packaging today!

[packatechnologys]

CPLA Biodegradable Food Packing Container Lid

CPLA is the product of ordinary PLA after high temperature crystallization, CPLA not only has the characteristics of ordinary PLA, but also has a temperature resistance up to 120 degrees. so it's an ideal product which is used for hot food packaging, also it'smicrowaveable.

Company Name:Zhongkai Packaging Technology (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd. Web:https://www.goodmaxcn.com/product/biodegradable-packaging-containers/cpla-biodegradable-food-packing-container-lid.html ADD:No.15 Wenlan Rd, Jianshan New District, Huangwan Town, Haining, Zhejiang, China Phone:86-13067533388 Email:manager@goodmaxcn.com Tip:314415 Profile:The products cover food packaging, electronic packaging, medical device packaging, etc., and have more than 20 patents, which are exported to dozens of countries such as the United States, Japan, Singapore, Chile, South Korea, Australia, and Canada.

[foodpackagingdirect]

5 reasons to choose cardboard food packaging for your company

Nowadays, when the environmental sustainability is in the spotlight, industries are looking for eco-friendly materials for their packaging processes. The plastic food containers are being replaced by an alternative coming into the limelight which is cardboard takeaway boxes. Let’s get into the reasons why these cardboard boxes for food are increasingly becoming the favourites choice for disposable container around the UK.

Eco-Friendly Option:

The cardboard boxes, which serve as food containers, are made from renewable materials, reason for its being good for the planet. Different from the plastic containers, the cardboards are biodegradable and so, they can decompose naturally. This in turn helps to environmental saving and ultimately reduces the amount of waste produced.

Versatility in Design:

The cardboard takeaway containers can be found in different designs and dimensions and they are determined by the food types and purposes of the service. No matter whether you require boxes to deliver a sandwich, salad, or a full hot meal, you will always have a suitable cardboard takeaway box for all these options. To add to that, these containers can be created in variations with the option to incorporate brand logos or designs which would further help you create a unique company image.

Cost-Effective Solution:

Using cardboard to pack food can help businesses in the end as it is a cost-effective choice. Compared to other food packaging materials, such as plastic takeaway containers or aluminium food container, cardboard is relatively inexpensive. Additionally, many suppliers offer a bulk discounts or wholesale prices for cardboard takeaway boxes allowing businesses to save on Food packaging expenses without compromising on quality.

Convenient and Practical:

Cardboard food containers offer a convenient solution for both businesses and customers. They are light in weight and can easily be handle. This kind of packaging becomes the best choice for take away and food delivery. Their strong construction makes sure that the food doesn’t get leaked during transportation which helps to minimize the risks of getting leaks. Moreover, cardboard takeaway boxes can be easily stacked, optimizing storage space in kitchens or delivery vehicles.

Meeting Customer Expectations:

In the present time, environmentally friendly consumption decision is one of the factors that is considered more and more. With the customers’ awareness and expectation of sustainable practices, businesses can easily involve biodegradable food packaging such as cardboard containers in their plan information to demonstrate their commitment to the cause. Providing various eco-friendly packing solutions will also enable you to reach environmentally friendly customers and in fact raise your brand commitment.

In conclusion, cardboard food containers are becoming a green sustainable and relevant option for businesses in the food industry. Eco-friendly and versatile in design with convenience and cost efficiency at same time, along with customer expectation meeting features, cardboard takeaway boxes are revolutionizing the methods of packing and serving food. With increasing numbers of companies translating into green economy cardboard food containers will shape the face of the food packaging industry.

To explore the variety of cardboard food containers and other biodegradable food packing materials available, check out Food Packaging Direct.

[jcmarchi]

5 Futuristic Food Technologies Shaping Healthy Eating Habits - Technology Org

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/5-futuristic-food-technologies-shaping-healthy-eating-habits-technology-org/

5 Futuristic Food Technologies Shaping Healthy Eating Habits - Technology Org

Imagine biting into a future where technology and nutrition intertwine to redefine what lands on your plate. Across the globe, innovators are cooking up futuristic food technologies that not only promise to bolster your health but also safeguard our precious planet in the long term. 

Two hot dogs on a plate – illustrative photo. Image credit: Ivy Farm via Unsplash, free license

From lab-grown meats that curb the environmental impact of traditional livestock farming to fine-tuned smart kitchen appliances—these advancements offer tantalizing prospects. Let’s explore how vertical farming, personalized nutrition platforms, and biodegradable packaging could change the very fabric of our eating habits, serving up a feast for both body and earth.

5 Futuristic Food Technologies Shaping Healthy Eating Habits

Dive into the world of culinary innovation with these 5 food technologies that are reshaping our approach to healthy eating. Embrace a future where sustainability is at the forefront.

1. Personalized Nutrition Platforms

Welcome to the future of eating well, where apps are transforming the landscape of dietary management. Picture a digital companion that learns your likes, dislikes, and health goals. It’s like having a pocket-sized nutritionist at your service around the clock. 

These platforms track your food intake, monitor your nutrient levels, and recommend meals tailored just for you. They may suggest a high-fiber breakfast if you need to improve digestion or devise Omega-3-rich diets if you’re aiming for better heart health. 

But it’s more than meal plans; these systems can connect with grocery stores to order ingredients or even adjust recipes based on what’s seasonally available. This personal touch ensures that not only do you eat well but also do so sustainably and enjoyably.

2. Smart Kitchen Appliances

In your quest to lead a healthier lifestyle, smart kitchen appliances are becoming indispensable allies. Picture this: appliances that can sync with your fitness tracker and suggest a recovery smoothie or adjust cooking times for the Factor 75 meal kit recipes you’ve been eager to try. 

These intelligent machines are revolutionizing meal prep by ensuring you use the exact amount of ingredients needed, cutting back on waste while enhancing nutritional intake. An oven that preheats itself while you’re still wrapping up your workout or a refrigerator that reminds you to consume produce before it spoils isn’t just convenient; it’s transformative for healthy habits.

3. Lab-Grown Meats

The innovation of lab-grown meats marks a new horizon in sustainable and healthy eating practices. Here’s why this technology is worth watching:

Reduced Environmental Impact: Cultivating meat in a lab setting decreases the overall strain on environmental resources compared to traditional livestock farming methods.

Health Benefits: As these meats can be engineered in controlled environments, there is an opportunity to optimize their nutritional content by reducing unhealthy fats or eliminating antibiotics and growth hormones often found in conventional meat.

Animal Welfare: Embracing lab-grown meats means fewer animals are raised for slaughter, aligning your dietary choices with ethical consumption patterns.

Though still in its initial stages, lab-grown meat promises a future where enjoying a juicy steak can come without the side order of ecological guilt or health concerns. It offers a way forward where technology meets tradition on your dinner plate.

4. Vertical Farming

Vertical farming is sprouting up as a groundbreaking way to approach agriculture, especially in urban environments where space is at a premium. Here’s how it can shape your eating habits:

Space Efficiency: By growing crops in stacked layers indoors, you dramatically reduce the footprint needed for farming. Think of a high rise but for your food.

Resource Conservation: These farms often use hydroponic systems that recycle water and nutrients, meaning less waste and lower water usage.

Optimal Nutrient Content: Since vertical farms can control variables like light and temperature perfectly, the produce they yield is not only fresher but potentially richer in nutrients. It’s a simple equation: fresher food equals healthier meals on your table.

By supporting food grown through vertical farming, you’re biting into crisp greens and also taking a bite out of unnecessary resource use—the taste of sustainability never felt so good!

5. Biodegradable Packaging

In an era where sustainability is as crucial as nutrition, biodegradable packaging is becoming a key component of healthy eating. You now have the power to protect your health and the planet simultaneously with innovative containers that can break down quickly after use. 

Companies are turning to natural sources like cornstarch, mushroom roots, and seaweed to craft packaging materials that you might table after snacking, watching them decompose or even adding them to your compost bin. This shift will help combat plastic pollution. 

As more consumers embrace this green evolution, expect to see an array of environmentally friendly options showing up in supermarkets, silently championing the earth’s well-being.

In Conclusion…

Ready to be part of the food revolution? Embrace the innovations that could transform your kitchen, plate, and lifestyle for the better. Your choices matter—both for your health and our planet. The future of food is in your hands; start shaping it today by exploring these exciting technologies. Let’s eat our way to a healthier tomorrow!

You can offer your link to a page which is relevant to the topic of this post.

[packwaresblog]

Biodegradable Food Containers: A Step Towards Plastic-Free Oceans

Biodegradable, eco friendly food containers, on the other hand, are made from organic materials that can naturally decompose over time. These bio containers break down into non-toxic components through biological processes, which do not harm the environment or marine life. 

[ecolatess]

The Rise of Biodegradable Food Containers: A Step Towards Sustainable Dining

As the impact of plastic waste on our planet becomes increasingly evident, consumers and businesses are embracing eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic. One solution making waves in the food industry is using biodegradable food containers. These containers are changing how we approach packaging and disposal in dining, reducing waste, and fostering a new era of sustainable dining. Let’s dive into the rise of biodegradable food containers and why they are a game-changer for the environment and eco-conscious consumers.

Understanding the Environmental Impact of Traditional Food Containers

Traditional plastic food containers are notorious for their environmental impact, taking hundreds of years to break down and often releasing toxic chemicals into the environment. Unfortunately, much of this plastic waste ends up in landfills, rivers, and oceans, where it contributes to the growing issue of plastic pollution. These plastics, unable to fully decompose, instead break down into smaller microplastics, which can harm marine life and enter our food chain. This cycle of plastic waste has become a pressing issue, prompting both individuals and businesses to seek alternatives that are kinder to the planet.

What Are Biodegradable Food Containers?

Biodegradable food containers are made from natural, renewable materials designed to break down in the environment. Materials like bagasse (a byproduct of sugarcane, cornstarch, bamboo fiber, and palm leaves are commonly used for these containers. Unlike traditional plastics, which can take centuries to decompose, biodegradable containers are designed to break down within a matter of months under the right conditions, leaving behind no toxic residue.

Key Benefits of Biodegradable Food Containers

Reduced Plastic Waste

Biodegradable containers significantly reduce plastic waste. Because they break down naturally, they lessen the burden on landfills and reduce the risk of polluting waterways and oceans.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Many biodegradable containers are made from plant-based materials, which require fewer resources to produce than plastic. The production process emits fewer greenhouse gases, which helps reduce the carbon footprint of food packaging.

No Harmful Microplastics

When biodegradable containers decompose, they don’t create microplastics that linger in the environment. This is a key benefit over traditional plastics, which fragment into microplastics that persist for centuries and can harm wildlife.

Safe Composting

Many biodegradable containers are also compostable, which means they can be added to compost piles and used to enrich soil. This turns waste into a resource, creating a more circular approach to waste management.

The Demand for Biodegradable Food Containers

The rise in consumer awareness about environmental issues has driven the demand for sustainable products, and food containers are no exception. More consumers are actively seeking out restaurants and food businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices. Biodegradable containers align with this demand, allowing businesses to cater to eco-conscious customers and enhance their brand’s sustainability credentials.

Not only are biodegradable containers attractive to environmentally aware customers, but they’re also increasingly supported by government policies. In many regions, regulations are being introduced to limit or ban single-use plastics, giving businesses a strong incentive to adopt biodegradable alternatives. By getting ahead of these regulations and transitioning to sustainable packaging options now, businesses can better position themselves for long-term success.

Are Biodegradable Containers the Future of Sustainable Dining?

While biodegradable containers are not a standalone solution to all environmental challenges, they represent a significant shift in reducing plastic waste from the food industry. With ongoing innovation, biodegradable containers are becoming more versatile and affordable, making them accessible to a broader range of businesses and customers. As the demand for sustainable dining continues to grow, biodegradable food containers will likely become a standard part of food service operations.

How You Can Support the Shift to Biodegradable Food Containers

Whether you’re a business owner or a consumer, you can help accelerate the adoption of biodegradable food containers. Here are a few ways to support the movement:

For Businesses: Consider switching to biodegradable packaging options to reduce environmental impact, attract eco-conscious customers, and comply with evolving regulations.

For Consumers: Opt for dining establishments that prioritize sustainable packaging and encourage your favorite restaurants to consider eco-friendly alternatives.

Conclusion

The rise of biodegradable food containers signals a critical step towards sustainable dining and a healthier planet. As these containers become more widely adopted, we can look forward to a significant reduction in plastic waste, a smaller carbon footprint, and a safer environment for future generations. By embracing biodegradable options, we’re not just choosing sustainable dining—we’re choosing a sustainable future.

[rebeccathenaturalist]

Welcome to my Tuesday morning PSA about plastics!

So--I was walking along the Bolstadt beach approach sidewalk here in Long Beach, WA yesterday afternoon, and I started seeing these little orange pellets on the ground that looked a little bit like salmon roe (but probably weren't). So I picked one up, and it was most definitely rubber. I went around picking up every one I could find, and while I didn't keep exact count I probably amassed 50-60 of them. I took this picture before depositing them in the nearest trash can.

These are airsoft gun pellets, and you can buy them in big jars containing thousands of them. That means that someone who decided that the beach was a great place to shoot their airsoft guns could easily litter the place with countless little bits of plastic rubber in less than an hour. We already have a huge problem here with people leaving trash, including tiny bits of plastic, all over the beach (you should see the gigantic mess after 4th of July fireworks when thousands of people come in from out of town, blow things up, and then leave again without picking up after themselves.)

But these airsoft pellets have a particularly nasty side effect. You know how my first thought was "wow, those look kind of like salmon roe?" Well, we have a number of opportunistic omnivore birds like crows, ravens, and several species of gull that commonly scavenge on the beach, especially along the approaches because people often feed them there. If I can catch the resemblance of an orange airsoft pellet to a fish egg, then chances are there are wildlife that will assume they're edible.

Since birds don't chew their food, they probably won't notice that the taste or texture is wrong--it'll just go down the hatch. And since they can't digest the pellets, there's a good chance they might just build up in the bird's digestive system, especially if the bird eats a large number of them--say, fifty or sixty of them dropped on the ground along the same fifty foot stretch of sidewalk. The bird might die of starvation if there's not enough capacity for food in their stomach--or they might just die painfully of an impacted gut, and no way to get help for it. If the pellets end up washed into the ocean, you get the same issue with fish and other marine wildlife eating them, and then of course the pellets eventually breaking up into microplastic particles.

You can get biodegradable airsoft pellets; they appear to mainly be gray or white in color rather than bright screaming orange and green. But "biodegradable" doesn't mean "instantly dissolves the next time it rains." An Amazon listing for Aim Green biodegradable airsoft pellets advertise them as "Our biodegradable BBs are engineered to degrade only with long-term exposure to water and sun and will degrade 180 days after being used." That's half a year for them to be eaten by wildlife.

I don't know, y'all. That handful of carelessly dropped rubber pellets just encapsulates how much people don't factor in the rest of nature when making decisions, even on something that is purely for entertainment like an airsoft gun. We could have had a lot of the same technological advances we have today, but with much less environmental impact, if we had considered the long-term effects on both other people and other living beings, as well as our habitats. We could have found ways from the beginning to make these things in ways that benefited us but also mitigated any harm as much as possible. Instead we're now having to reverse-engineer things we've been using for decades, and sometimes--like the "biodegradable" airsoft pellets--they still have a significant negative impact.

But--at least there are people trying to do things better, thinking ahead instead of just on immediate profit. We're stuck in a heck of a mess here, figuratively and literally, and changing an entire system can't be done in a day. Maybe we can at least keep pushing for a cultural shift that emphasizes planning far into the future--if not the often-cited "seven generations ahead", then at least throughout the potential lifespan of a given product.

[mariacallous]

Imitation caviar invented in the 1930s could provide the solution to plastic pollution, claims Pierre Paslier, CEO of London-based packaging company Notpla. He discovered the cheap food alternative, invented by Unilever and made using seaweed, after quitting his job as a packaging engineer at L’Oréal.

With cofounder and co-CEO Rodrigo García González, Paslier and Notpla have extended the idea, taking a protein made from seaweed and creating packaging for soft drinks, fast food, laundry detergent, and cosmetics, among other things. They’re also branching out into cutlery and paper.

“Seaweed grows quickly and needs no fresh water, land, or fertilizer,” Paslier explains. “It captures carbon and makes the surrounding waters less acidic. Some species of seaweed can grow up to a meter a day.” Best of all, he says, packaging made from seaweed is completely biodegradable because it’s entirely nature-based.

Paslier noted an amazing coincidence—Alexander Parkes invented the first plastic in Hackney Wick, the same part of East London that, 100 years later, Notpla calls home. Since Parkes’ first invention, waste plastic—especially tiny particles known as microplastics, which take hundreds or thousands of years to break down into harmless molecules—has been wreaking havoc in ecosystems across the world.

Plastic pollution is proving especially damaging in the marine environment, where tiny beads of plastic are deadly to the vital microorganisms that make up plankton and which sequester 30 percent of our carbon emissions, “without us having to build any new fancy technologies,” Paslier says.

Notpla’s plans to replace plastic began with a drink container for marathons. This is, in effect, a very large piece of fake caviar—a small pouch that contains juice or water that athletes can pop in their mouths and swallow when they need rehydration. “We wanted to create something that would feel more like fruit; packaging that you could feel comes more from picking something from a tree than off a production line,” he says.

Paslier showed pictures of two postrace streets—one where refueling came in plastic containers and one where it came in edible Notpla. The first was littered with plastic bottles; the second completely waste-free.

The next step was takeout food containers. Even containers we think are cardboard contain plastic, he says, as grease from food would make plain cardboard too soggy. Working with delivery company Just Eat, Notpla has pioneered a replacement for the per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), the so-called “forever chemical” plastics that currently line cardboard takeout containers. It has even found a way to retrofit its solution into the old PFAS plant, so there was no need to build new factories.

The company is developing soluble sachets for detergent pods, ice-cream scoops, and even paper packing for cosmetics. And there’s plenty of seaweed to experiment with, Paslier points out. “You don’t realize it’s already available massively at scale,” he says. “It’s in our toothpaste, it’s in our beer, it’s in our reduced-fat products—so there’s an existing infrastructure that we can work with without having to build any additional processes.”

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Which packaging type for a 12-ounce, single-serve container of orange juice would you choose as the most sustainable option: 1. Aluminum/canned, made with recycled material; 2. Carton, described as biodegradable/compostable; 3. Glass, 100% recyclable; or 4. Plastic, described as biodegradable/compostable? If you were like the U.S. consumers surveyed by food scientists in a University of Massachusetts Amherst study, you'd prefer glass and believe it was the most sustainable choice. And you all would be mistaken. "Glass was the most sought-after and most highly esteemed packaging type," says Nomzamo Dlamini, lead author of the paper recently published in the journal Sustainability. Dlamini, a food science Ph.D. candidate, was a recent visiting Fulbright scholar from the University of Pretoria in South Africa studying in the UMass Amherst lab of senior author Alissa Nolden, assistant professor of food science. "But it turns out, glass is actually among the least sustainable if you look at the whole packaging lifecycle," Dlamini added.

Read more.