Scientists at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), in collaboration with the retailer Lidl, have developed a new packaging material made from carrot pomace. The material is suitable for packaging vegetables and fruits, it is applied by spraying directly on them. Such packaging is absolutely non-toxic, retains the natural moisture of vegetables, they stay fresh for about a week longer.
Empa scientists explored the possibility of using a cheaper source of cellular nanofiber than wood pulp. Cellular nanofibers are microscopic interconnected fibers that form a material with properties similar to plastic.
The process begins with squeezing the juice of carrots, unsuitable for sale. The resulting fibers are washed, bleached, crushed and turned into a homogeneous mixture. It turns out a very thin, almost invisible layer, which is applied by spraying. The coating is biodegradable and can be easily washed off the surface. This material is a good solution for perishable fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers.
Packaging that helps sell and meets environmental standards
Mikhail Afarinov, Head of Packaging Equipment Direction, Agrotrade Company Do potatoes need packaging? If you answer this question from a buyer's perspective, ...