The food industry has long been implicated in the growing problem of plastic waste, largely due to the widespread use of plastic packaging. This issue is particularly pertinent in the UK, where over 2.2 million tons of plastic packaging waste is produced annually. However, a series of innovative, biodegradable packaging solutions are now emerging to help tackle this problem head-on.
Let’s look at these exciting developments, how they work, and their potential impact on the food industry and the environment. You will discover the latest in active and smart packaging, plant-based materials, and biodegradable films.
Biodegradable Films
Biodegradable films serve as an alternative to traditional plastic films, which are often non-recyclable and negatively impact the environment.
These films are made from a variety of materials including polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and starch-based polymers. According to a study available on Google Scholar, these films have shown promising results in terms of their biodegradability and shelf life extension capabilities.
Innovations in this area are mainly driven by start-ups and smaller companies. For example, UK-based company ‘Two Farmers’ uses compostable packets made from cellulose and sustainably grown eucalyptus pulp. ‘Snact’, another UK company, uses a film that breaks down within 26 weeks in a home composting environment.
Active and Smart Packaging
Active and smart packaging refers to packaging that interacts with the food to extend its shelf life or improve its safety. For example, it might release preserving agents, or change color when the food is no longer safe to consume.
Active packaging technologies include oxygen scavengers, moisture absorbers, antimicrobial agents, and enzymes. The market for these technologies is growing rapidly, with a CAGR of 6.82% forecasted between 2021 and 2026 according to data from Crossref.
Smart packaging, on the other hand, provides information about the condition of the food. For instance, it can indicate whether the food has been exposed to harmful conditions or if it’s reaching its expiration date. This type of packaging is increasingly being developed with biodegradable materials, reducing its environmental impact.
Plant-Based Materials
The use of plant-based materials in packaging is another exciting development. These materials, derived from sources such as corn, sugar cane, and algae, offer a renewable, biodegradable alternative to traditional plastics.
A notable development in this area is the production of ‘PLA’ – a type of bioplastic derived from plant sugars. PLA has similar properties to petroleum-based plastics, but it decomposes naturally into carbon dioxide and water under the right conditions.
Companies such as ‘Vegware’ and ‘Eco-Products’ offer a range of plant-based packaging products, including cups, plates, and cutlery. These products are not only biodegradable but also commercially compostable.
Challenges and Opportunities
While these developments present exciting opportunities, they also pose certain challenges. For instance, biodegradable materials can often be more expensive to produce than traditional plastics. They also require specific conditions to break down, which are not always present in landfill sites.
However, with increasing consumer demand for sustainable products, the market for biodegradable packaging is set to grow. Furthermore, regulatory pressures are also likely to drive adoption. For instance, the UK government has pledged to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste by 2042, which will inevitably boost the demand for alternative packaging solutions.
There’s also much scope for further innovation in this space. For instance, researchers are currently investigating the potential of nanotechnology in improving the properties of bio-based packaging materials.
The Future of Food Packaging
The future of food packaging is looking greener than ever. As we transition to a more sustainable future, biodegradable packaging will play a key role in reducing our plastic waste and protecting our environment.
While there are still challenges to be overcome, the progress so far is promising. With continued investment in research and development, the possibilities seem endless. Whether it’s through biodegradable films, active and smart packaging, or plant-based materials, the food industry is poised to make significant strides in its journey towards sustainability.
Remember, the next time you pick up a food product from the supermarket, you’re not just buying the food. You’re also buying the packaging. As consumers, we have the power to drive change by choosing products that align with our values. So, let’s make it count.
Water Vapour Barrier Properties of Biodegradable Films
The effectiveness of food packaging is largely determined by its water vapour barrier properties. This critical capability helps maintain the product quality and prolongs its shelf life. Traditional plastic packaging is known for its excellent barrier properties. However, one of the challenges in developing bio-based packaging materials is achieving similar performance.
Amongst the various bio-based films, those derived from the likes of polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and starch-based polymers, show potential. A study published on Google Scholar demonstrates that these films, when treated with specific additives or used in combination with other materials, can display improved barrier properties.
For instance, PLA-based nanocomposite films have shown increased hydrophobic properties, thus enhancing their resistance to water vapour. Similarly, layered films, which combine multiple biodegradable materials, can also offer improved barrier performance. For example, UK-based company ‘TIPA’ produces compostable packaging with similar mechanical and technical properties to conventional plastic. Their packaging exhibits good oxygen and moisture barrier properties suitable for dry food packaging.
While further research is needed to improve the water vapour barrier properties of these materials, initial results are promising. These advancements hold the potential to make biodegradable films a viable alternative to traditional plastic films in the near future.
The Rise of Eco-Friendly Single-Use Plastics
One major source of plastic waste in the food industry is single-use plastics. These include things like plastic bags, cutlery, straws, and food containers. They are used once and then discarded, often ending up in landfill sites and oceans.
In order to tackle this issue, companies are looking towards eco-friendly single-use plastics. These are made from plant-based materials and have the ability to break down naturally without harming the environment.
For instance, ‘Vegware’ offers a range of single-use products, such as cutlery, cups, and takeaway containers, made from plant-based materials. Similarly, ‘Eco-Products’ provides compostable packaging solutions that not only break down in a composting environment but also have the rigidity and strength of traditional plastic.
The rise of these eco-friendly single-use plastics is part of a larger trend towards sustainable packaging in the food industry. With increasing consumer awareness about environmental issues, the demand for these products is likely to grow.
Conclusion: Towards a Sustainable Packaging Future
The latest breakthroughs in biodegradable packaging for the UK’s food industry are indeed promising. From biodegradable films with improved water vapour barrier properties to eco-friendly single-use plastics, these innovations are contributing to a more sustainable future.
These advancements are not only beneficial for the environment but also for businesses. They cater to an increasingly aware and conscious consumer base that values sustainability. Moreover, they align with the UK government’s commitment to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste by 2042.
However, there are still hurdles to overcome. For biodegradable packaging to become mainstream, it needs to be cost-competitive with traditional plastic packaging. Additionally, they should be designed to decompose under typical landfill conditions, not just in industrial composting facilities.
Nevertheless, with ongoing research and investment in this space, these challenges can be resolved. The future of food packaging is poised to be greener, more sustainable, and less harmful to our planet. As consumers, we too have a role to play in this shift by choosing products with sustainable packaging. Together, we can contribute to a more sustainable future.
