Plastic food packaging may not be a curse to the environment much longer. Researchers from Rutgers University and Harvard University have developed a plant-based coating that is said to be greener and safer than plastic packaging. The approach “sprays” biopolymer- and polysaccharide-based fibers (the most common carbohydrates in food) that wrap around your food. The resulting shield is strong enough to protect against bruising and contains natural antimicrobials (citric acid, nisin and thyme oil) that can fight harmful bacteria and viruses and prevent spoilage.
In tests, the coating extended the shelf life of avocados by about 50 percent. It only takes three days to biodegrade and you can rinse the coating with water. Scientists are even imagining turning the fibers into sensors that can be activated to kill bacteria.
There is no mention of any short-term plans to put this spray-on wrap replacement into production. It can take a long time to buy bread or fruit with eco-friendly protection. Still, it may only be a matter of time before this technology reaches your supermarket. The coating can reduce the load on landfills, limit the spread of microplastics and minimize food waste.
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