What You Need to Know
Biodegradable food packaging is made from bioplastics such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and starch-based bioplastics, which can break down in a matter of weeks to months under composting conditions or in soil and water. The biodegradation process involves microorganisms breaking down the bioplastics into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.
Steps
- 1.
Banana leaf wrapping (South/Southeast Asia): Traditional cooking and serving vessel that imparts subtle flavor
- 2.
Corn husk tamales (Mesoamerica): Edible packaging that steams contents while adding aroma
- 3.
Parchment en papillote (France): Cooking method that creates steam pocket while preventing flavor loss
The Science
Primary Reaction
Microbial degradation