Norwegian researchers have developed plant-based food packaging that extends the shelf-life of food and also lets consumers know it is no longer fresh enough to eat.
Gemini reports that researchers from SINTEF are ready to demonstrate the packaging which they have made from PLA (polyactic acid) and bio-PET (polyethylene terephthalate).
“The packaging is made of biopolymers to which we have added nanoparticle components”, said SINTEF’s Åge Larsen.
“This provides the packaging with new and improved food preservation properties. It is designed mainly to protect the contents from their surroundings and thus extend shelf life. We achieve this by means of improved oxygen barriers. Standard plastic packaging allows the entry of air which places restrictions on shelf life. Moreover, the new approach considerably reduces the carbon footprint.”
Larsen said plant-based food packaging is an expanding field. Four packaging designs are currently being made using PLA and bio-PET.
These include a blow-moulded bottle, a pot that can be used to hold seafood, bowl-like containers made with a three-layer coating, and a blow-moulded film (similar to plastic) that can be used for making bags and oxygen-protective coverings.
In addition the researchers have developed sensors that will let consumers know when the product is no longer suitable to eat.
“The sensors are sensitive to small changes and the packaging will change colour when the substances are released,” said Larsen.
“It might be embarrassing for a food retailer to be faced with rows of red flashing lights, so we envisage developing substances that are not necessarily visible to customers when they are released. Manufacturers, on the other hand, will be able to use direct-reading instruments.”
Image: SINTEF