Gallery: PLANTIC

We are beginning to see more prominent use of biodegradable disposable food packaging, particularly at green-oriented festivals and natural groceries. But most junk (I mean “snack”) foods are still packed in plastic, which in case you had forgotten, not only fills landfills and pollutes oceans, but also perpetuates petroleum consumption.

Recently, the Australian packaging manufacturer Plantic Technologies, Ltd. developed a fully biodegradable, corn-based material for your Hostess Cupcakes. Plantic’s Thermoformed Trays look just like conventional plastic trays until you get them wet. Then they dissolve.

This technology makes packaging as easily compostable as a banana peel or a lettuce leaf, and consumers are encouraged to throw Plantic into their compost and worm bins. This is a new development for bioplastics, which has clear benefits as far as the health of the earth, but also apparent limitations in that it can’t withstand moisture. The company says they are looking for ways to improve the material for a wider range of products. For now, you are safe buying water-tight packages of guilty pleasure in Plantic trays, with one less reason to feel guilty.

Thanks Leandro!