Sustainable food packaging has become a necessity in the present times. In light of negative environmental implications of plastic food packages, eco-friendly packaging materials are being increasingly introduced worldwide. The sustainable food packaging market is predicted to grow to 7.7% by 2030. A hike in the demand for biodegradable packaging and edible packaging options by stakeholders has linked this growth. The sections below undertake a wholesome analysis of the latest innovation in biodegradable and edible materials. And the benefits and drawbacks with these solutions.
Biodegradable Food Packaging
Biodegradable packaging is very different from conventional packaging because it decomposes naturally. This packaging is a novel response to persistent packaging pollution. Over time, polymers like algae, sugarcane, and cornstarch have been used to package food products. Other materials like advanced bioplastics are also rapidly gaining traction. These sustainable food packaging materials have done a great job ensuring food safety while protecting the environment.
Edible Packaging Materials
Edible packaging options are an offshoot of biodegradable packaging. These materials take it further by using safe products for human consumption. Studies and inventions use material like passion fruit peel and tilapia fish bones for edible packaging options. Other plant-based packaging with seaweed and brown algae are also great examples. Edible packaging options are a good way to ensure excellent shelf life while limiting the stress of recycling. Contrary to some opinions, these eco-friendly packaging materials are safe for consumption. It is also a great way to advance zero-waste food packaging worldwide.
Pros and Cons of Biodegradable and Edible Food Packaging Options
Novel sustainable food packaging options appear to be the best way to reduce packaging waste. Indeed, these innovations could not have come at a better time. Experts predict that they are the future of food packaging. However, these eco-friendly packaging materials have severe drawbacks for all their benefits.
Advantages
Preservation Extension
Biodegradable materials are known to improve a product’s shelf life. Studies have also shown that they can add value to food nutrients. Edible package options can disburse antimicrobials to remove toxic gasses in the product, boosting the shelf life and quality of packaged foods. An extended shelf life also prevents food from being disposed of and wasted in landfills, resulting in an increased release of toxic gasses.
Waste Reduction
The annual plastic waste caused by food packaging materials is staggering. Regions are left to grapple with the potential climate effects. The development of a decomposable and edible alternative could significantly reduce packaging waste. Unlike conventional packages, eco-friendly options do not need extensive recycling processes. As such, they save the time and money otherwise spent on those processes.
Product Safety
Edible packaging options are so named because they can be consumed. These materials are derived from natural ingredients. Their biodegradable counterparts are also a great source of plant nutrients as they decompose naturally. The threat of chemicals leaching into food products is also minimalized with eco-friendly packaging materials. Ultimately, it is a win-win solution for the consumer, the producer, and the planet.
Disadvantages
Cost Limitations
Innovations involving edible food options are capital intensive. Innovators are unable to produce in mass the way they would with traditional packaging materials. These biodegradable materials are also produced through complex processes that may be unavailable in certain places. Sustainable packaging may become a privilege only afforded to countries with seemingly rich economies, leaving others out in the race against climate change.
Logistics Arrangement
Biodegradable and edible packaging materials may appear fragile. That is because they are. These materials have been carefully preserved and must remain so until they reach the final packaging destination. Logistical uncertainty may result in damage during transportation. Alternatively, transportation costs may increase because special arrangements must be made for them. This increase can affect the final goods. Consumers may be tempted to opt for products with conventional packages due to their cheaper costs.
Single-use Reinforcement
The quality of eco-friendly packaging materials lies in their single-use without producing waste. However, this may lead people to believe these products will naturally decompose wherever they are discarded. Such a mentality can stall the environmental benefits that accompany sustainable packages. Where these packages are used and disposed of wrongly, they might end up in landfills.
Final Thoughts on Edible and Biodegradable Packaging Solutions
Biodegradable and edible food packaging solutions protect what goes into our bodies and the environment. They can aid in reducing waste and reducing the release of greenhouse gasses. While also adding nutrients to what we consume. However, these innovations may also be slow or virtually impossible for places which lack financial or human capacity. Regardless, we must make the best use of these sustainable solutions when available. While doing our best to reduce Earth’s waste one food package at a time.
