Context: Innovators from Kerala have developed edible food wrappers named ‘Eden Wrap’. The eco-friendly wrapper is a sustainable innovation and can offer promising alternatives to plastic packaging.
Relevance of the topic:
Prelims: Key facts related to Eden.
Mains: Can be used as an example in a step towards sustainable development.
Key Facts related to Eden
- The base material of the wrapper is derived from cellulose synthesised by specialised bacteria.
- Emulsifiers derived from bacteria along with essential oils extracted from specific plants are incorporated into the base material to form the wrapper. The essential oils give it an antimicrobial property, thus extending the shelf life.
- Despite its plastic-like appearance, Eden Wrap is fully-edible. If discarded, it naturally decomposes within a month.
- Significance: The packaging material will extend the shelf life of food. The edible wrappers will help in reducing plastic waste and promote sustainable living.
Plastic packaging accounts for approximately 40% of global plastic production, with food packaging emerging as the leading end-use sector. This underscores the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to conventional packaging materials.