What are the best materials and methods for producing edible packaging?

1 Types of edible packaging

Edible packaging can be made from various natural or synthetic materials, such as proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, waxes, or films. Some of the most common examples are seaweed, starch, gelatin, casein, cellulose, and alginate. Depending on the material, the packaging can have different properties, such as water resistance, oxygen permeability, texture, flavor, and color. Some packaging can also be biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable if not consumed.

2 Benefits of edible packaging

Edible packaging offers many benefits for the environment, the food industry, and the consumers. For the environment, it can reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills or oceans, and lower the greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional packaging production and disposal. For the food industry, it can extend the shelf life and quality of food products, as well as create new market opportunities and competitive advantages. For the consumers, it can provide additional nutrients, antioxidants, or probiotics, as well as convenience and novelty.

3 Challenges of edible packaging

Edible packaging also faces some challenges that need to be overcome before it can be widely adopted and accepted. Some of the main challenges are the high cost of production and distribution, the lack of standardization and regulation, the potential allergenicity and toxicity of some materials, the consumer perception and preference, and the ethical and cultural issues. Moreover, edible packaging may not be suitable for all types of food products, especially those that require high barrier properties or long-term storage.

4 Examples of edible packaging

Innovative and successful edible packaging examples already exist in the market, such as Ooho, a spherical water pouch made from seaweed extract, Wikipearl, a skin-like coating from natural ingredients, Evoware, a seaweed-based wrapper, Scoby, a leather-like material made from fermented bacteria and yeast, and Notpla, a ketchup sachet made from seaweed and calcium chloride. These products can be eaten, composted, used for bags, shoes, or clothing, and even dissolved in water.

5 Tips for using edible packaging

If you are interested in trying edible packaging, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, check the label and ingredients of the packaging to ensure you are not allergic or intolerant to any of them. Additionally, wash or rinse the packaging before eating it, particularly if it has been in contact with other substances or surfaces. Moreover, store the packaging in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, to prevent spoilage or degradation. Furthermore, follow the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer or seller regarding the shelf life, expiration date, and disposal method of the packaging. Lastly, be creative and experiment with different flavors, textures, and shapes of edible packaging to enjoy the experience!