In a major development for eco-packaging, a team of researchers have developed a form of film from whey protein.
The group from the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV in Freising, have successfully identified the right combination of proteins and discovered how to make the natural film on an industrial scale, Azom.com reported.
It explained that finding the right type of packaging is essential as the film is needed to protect the food from moisture, oxygen and contaminants that could reduce their shelf-life.
Currently, the film is made of plastics, however as firms look to go green, researchers are aiming to create a film from natural products which are biodegradable.
While many firms look to booklet labels to reduce packaging, Marks and Spencer has recently introduced a new form which will extend the shelf-life of its strawberries, cutting food waste.
The clay-life material will line the bottom of punnets to absorb the chemicals that promote decomposition.
Denny Bros Ltd, 17 January 2012
