It was the 10th edition of the series promoting practical solutions for the economy and manufacturing. The innovation by the researchers from Lodz University of Technology had previously been recognized with the award of an honorable mention in the 2021 "I Have an Idea for a Startup" competition organized by the Office of the City of Łódź.
Dr inż. Joanna Grzelczyk, the group lead, explains:
Olive pomace
Our invention uses post-production waste from the oil industry and an admixture of flour from the grain industry. Olive pomace resulting from the extraction of olive oil makes up 70-80 percent of the mixture. Olive cake is a raw material that is rather challenging to handle, nevertheless it is a nutritionally valuable byproduct. For instance, it is characterized by high anti-oxidative potential and contains precious omega acids, which is why it was selected to be used as a base for edible packaging.
How is the packaging made?
The production of edible olive pomace packaging involves several steps. Notably, no chemical compounds are used in the process. Proper grinding is important, as is obtaining adequate plasticity of the mixture. The mass is laid out onto preformed molds and treated with high heat. A variety of molds are used to make packaging and disposable tableware, which makes it possible to produce cups, bowls, and other dishes, of the intended shape and thickness.
How far along is the project?
We have completed preliminary research on the nutritional properties of the packaging and examined storage-related aspects. The results are promising, and some of them have been published. As of now, we are awaiting a decision on our application for patent protection. Once the invention is protected by a patent, we shall be looking to commercialize it.
Competitive edge
What drove us in the process of developing this original method of the production of innovative edible packaging was our concern for the consumer and the environment. In utilizing vegetative waste and turning it into edible packaging, we address several problems all at once. Although edible disposable packaging is already commercially available, it is nevertheless predominantly made from raw materials that are actually wholesome food, while many countries in the world are still struggling with malnutrition, despite the global overproduction of food.
Our packaging and tableware are edible, a good source of dietary fiber and other compounds that are beneficial to human health. If, however, you do not find them appetizing, they will undergo biodegradation within up to 30 days. You can use them for hot and cold beverages, to serve liquid dishes as well as dry food stuffs. The packaging is geared for the hospitality, food service, and catering industries, as well as for home use.
To top it all, the process of production of this biodegradable edible dinnerware is both energy efficient and low carbon.