Have you heard of AgroSustain? They have managed to solve two big packaging challenges through their packaging made from vegetable oil. 

The Switzerland-based startup has developed natural biofilms using plant extracts which extend the freshness of food and slow down the ripening and water loss in them (WO2022248675A1). 

And while a lot of companies have dabbled with edible packaging, what makes AgroSustain’s research interesting as their coating is made from natural vegetable oils such as argan, avocado, canola, safflower, castor and coconut. 

Their coating is prepared by using an emulsion made of vegetable oils and a mixture of two nonionic sucrose fatty acid ester emulsifiers.

The biofilm claims to extend the shelf life of food, and the proof is in the pudding- 2 days after a banana was sprayed with coating, weight loss in coated bananas was reduced by 52.3% compared to non-coated ones.

Name, during our research, we discovered two more startups utilizing zein coating and microbe-grown cellulose for edible packaging. I’d be happy to share more information with you if you’re looking for solutions in this area

We have also  conducted a comprehensive analysis of technologies with potential to reshape the packaging industry in 2024. This includes  new materials, material modifications, AI, machine learning, sensors, holography, and more- https://www.greyb.com/blog/packaging-trends/