The food industry is under increasing pressure to adopt environmentally sustainable practices, especially with outdated plastic packaging technologies which pose severe ecological concerns. A shift toward sustainable options is essential considering the growing challenge of non-biodegradable plastics in landfills and oceans. We are leading the charge with our unique biodegradable packaging development services, enabling the shift towards eco-sustainable food packaging technologies. We help food manufacturers achieve their sustainability goals while maintaining functionality during high-shelf value food product packaging that requires stringent protective measures and aesthetic appeal.
Fig 1. Agro-Food Waste Valorization for Sustainable Bio-Based Packaging (Luana S.C., 2024)
Our biodegradable packaging development service aims to design and produce tailored packaging solutions that address high value and stringent requirements in the food industry. We have expertise in bioplastics research, development, and advanced manufacturing. Within this scope, we focus on the starch-based materials and nanocellulose composites, which are bioplastics having strict requirements like high mechanical strength and other qualities. This service seeks to support the clients from the concept and material design to pilot-scale production and evaluation of applications.
Technical Principles
The base of our main technology is the unique blend of polymers based on starch and nanocellulose.
- Starch-Based Polymers: Starch serves as the base for our bioplastic material due to its polysaccharide composition being plentiful, renewable, and naturally biodegradable, as well as inexpensive and eco-friendly.
- Nanocellulose Reinforcement: The renewable source of cellulose enables nanocellulose to possess extraordinary mechanical, crystalline, stiff, and tensile strength. When incorporated with the starch matrix, nanocellulose enhances the mechanical strength of the bioplastic. It creates a permeable structure within the polymer that increases stress transfer, thus improving the mechanical strength, thermal stability, and barrier properties of the bioplastic. Because of these combined effects, we are able to achieve over 25 MPa tensile strength which is crucial for many flexible and semi-rigid packaging applications.
Technical Classification
The materials developed fall under the category of:
- Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers: Starch-based polymer composites.
- Nanocomposites: Starch polymers with nanocellulose fillers.
Application Areas
These solutions and other forms of biodegradable packaging can be used for:
- Fresh produce packaging (clam shells and films)
- Dairy product containers such as yoghurt cups and cheese wraps (limited to barrier properties).
- Ready to eat meal trays with accompanying lidding films.
- Carrier bags and flexible pouches.
Environmental Benefits
- Reduced Plastic Pollution: Slows down the rate at which persistent plastics accumulate in the ecosystem.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: Greenhouse emissions during production may be lower compared to conventional plastics (requires lifecycle analysis).
- Conservation of Fossil Fuels: Greater reliance on renewable resources results in a decreased dependence on finite petrochemicals.
- Degradation whereby products break down into water, carbon dioxide and biomass.
- Circular economy supporting: Contributes to sustained material lifecycle.
Our Services
We understand that developing and implementing new packaging solutions requires comprehensive support. Our company provides a suite of integrated services designed to assist clients at every stage of their journey towards sustainable packaging:
- Custom Material Research & Development (R&D): We collaborate closely with clients to understand their specific product and packaging requirements. Our R&D team then formulates and optimizes starch-nanocellulose blends to achieve desired properties such as tensile strength, barrier characteristics, flexibility, and compostability.
- Prototyping and Sample Production: We can produce initial prototypes and small-batch samples of the developed bioplastic material in various forms (e.g., films, sheets) for client evaluation and preliminary testing.
- Performance Testing and Validation: Our facilities are equipped to conduct a range of tests, including mechanical testing (tensile strength, elongation, tear resistance), barrier property analysis (oxygen and water vapor transmission rates), and biodegradability assessments according to international standards.
- Pilot-Scale Manufacturing & Process Optimization: We can assist in scaling up production from lab-scale to pilot-scale, helping to refine manufacturing processes for consistency and efficiency.
- Application-Specific Adaptation: We work with clients to ensure the developed material is suitable for their existing or new packaging machinery and processes, providing guidance on aspects like heat sealing and formability.
- Regulatory Guidance: While not a certifying body, we can offer guidance on relevant food contact material regulations and biodegradability certification pathways to help clients navigate the compliance landscape.
Company Service Advantages
- Specialized Expertise: Deep knowledge in starch chemistry, nanocellulose technology, and bioplastic formulation.
- Performance-Driven: A strong focus on achieving tangible performance targets, notably a tensile strength >25 MPa.
- Collaborative Approach: We partner with clients, ensuring solutions are perfectly aligned with their needs.
- Sustainability Focus: Commitment to developing genuinely eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Contact Us
Our biodegradable packaging development service offers a scientifically advanced and environmentally responsible pathway for food industry clients seeking to transition to sustainable packaging. By harnessing the power of starch-based materials and nanocellulose reinforcement, we deliver high-performance bioplastics that meet the rigorous demands of high-value food products. Partner with us to innovate, enhance your brand's green credentials, and contribute to a healthier planet.
How to Place an Order
Reference
- Luana S.C., Amit K.J., et al. "Agro-Food Waste Valorization for Sustainable Bio-Based Packaging" J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(2):41.
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.
Biodegradable Packaging Development
