Biodegradable Packaging Film Made from Milk Protein Breaks Down in 13 Weeks
By
JeanKage
A respectable bake. You'd come back tomorrow for another.
Summary
Researchers at Flinders University in South Australia have developed a biodegradable plastic alternative made from milk protein (calcium caseinate) blended with starch and natural nanoclay. The thin, flexible film is designed for single-use food packaging and completely breaks down in soil within approximately 13 weeks, offering a potential solution to plastic pollution.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledScientists racing to tackle plastic pollution have created a surprising new contender: a biodegradable packaging film made partly from milk protein.
Researchers at Flinders University blended calcium caseinate with starch and natural nanoclay to form a thin, durable material designed to mimic everyday plastic.
In soil tests, the film fully broke down in about 13 weeks, pointing to a realistic alternative for single-use food packaging.
As concerns grow about the environmental and health impacts of plastic waste, scientists are accelerating efforts to develop safer, biodegradable alternatives.
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