Coconut-Based Bioplastic Offers Sustainable Solution for Food Packaging

Researchers at Hasanuddin University in Indonesia have developed a biodegradable food packaging material using cellulose derived from fermented coconut water. This innovative bioplastic combines oxygen-scavenging functionality with improved mechanical performance, presenting a viable alternative to traditional plastic packaging.

Published in the ASEAN Journal for Science and Engineering in Materials, the study investigates multilayer films made from polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and an oxygen-scavenging agent, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Professor Andi Dirpan, the study’s lead author, emphasizes that this research aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals by promoting responsible production and climate action.

The newly developed material demonstrated a biodegradation rate of 28.86% over 25 days, comparable to other biodegradable plastics made from similar polymers. The researchers produced bacterial cellulose through a process akin to making nata de coco, resulting in a highly pure and fiber-rich reinforcing component.

The cellulose was processed into MCC powder and incorporated into a three-layer PLA film, with the oxygen-scavenger BHT positioned in the inner layers facing the food. Testing revealed that the coconut-derived cellulose produced a more uniform and defect-free structure compared to commercial alternatives, enhancing the film’s oxygen barrier properties.

However, the study noted a significant trade-off: while the reinforced film exhibited improved stiffness and oxygen-scavenging capabilities, it was also brittle and lacked flexibility. The researchers highlighted the need for further development to balance barrier performance with the material’s ability to withstand manufacturing and handling processes.

This research is part of a broader trend in the industry, as scientists and stakeholders seek sustainable packaging alternatives. Recent studies have explored various biodegradable materials, including transparent films made from grapevine canes in the US and polyhydroxyalkanoate-based coatings in Europe. Additionally, Chinese start-up BambooOrigin has begun commercializing biodegradable packaging films made entirely from bamboo, showcasing the global shift towards sustainable packaging solutions.