Next generation of packaging to mitigate food waste? Monash University researchers are turning sugars from discarded food into natural plastic films that could one day replace petroleum-based packaging.

The article focuses on research by Monash University scientists developing biodegradable bioplastics called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) from sugars derived from food waste to address the environmental challenges of conventional and soft plastics in packaging. These microbial polymers, produced by bacteria fed on sugars from waste bread, potatoes, and vegetables, can be processed into thin films that are home compostable and marine biodegradable. While promising for replacing petroleum-based soft plastics, current limitations include lower flexibility and oxygen barrier properties compared to conventional films, which the researchers aim to improve through polymer blending and plasticising techniques. The study highlights the potential of PHA bioplastics to support a circular packaging economy by reducing landfill waste and microplastic pollution, particularly in single-use packaging applications.