The concern for the ecological impact of plastic waste has driven research that combines sustainability with innovation. One such project led by researchers at the Institute of Macromolecules at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (IMA-UFRJ) aims to revolutionize the packaging market using food ingredients like flaxseed, garlic, pepper, and chia.
The invention is already in the process of patenting and, in addition to being more sustainable, promises to extend the shelf life of food. The group believes that the discovery could be a significant alternative to common packaging materials, given the environmental benefits and biodegradability of the bioplastics.
The researchers at UFRJ claim that their packaging has antioxidant and protective properties that prolong the shelf life of food and reduce waste. The bioplastic decomposes in approximately 180 days under favorable environmental conditions, preferably in a composting system, without releasing toxic substances.
Aside from the food sector, the research opens up possibilities for applications in areas such as health, technology, and fashion. The versatility of nanocomposites and their multiple applications highlight the transformative potential of this technology to replace non-renewable materials on a large scale.