Researchers from the University of the South Pacific have achieved a significant breakthrough that could revolutionize global food packaging. Spearheaded by Associate Professor David Rohindra from the Discipline of Chemistry, the team has developed edible and biodegradable food coatings and wrappers using natural ingredients such as cassava starch, agar, glycerol, and plant-based essential oils.
This innovation in sustainable food packaging holds the potential to transform food preservation methods worldwide, while establishing Fiji as a future leader in eco-friendly export initiatives. The newly developed cassava-based coating effectively helps preserve fruits like mangoes by minimizing spoilage caused by fruit flies. This dual-action coating promotes quicker drying through osmosis and incorporates clove oil, which deters fruit flies from laying eggs.
“This dual action functionality makes the coating especially effective for tropical produce, which often suffers from short shelf life and transport limitations,” noted Associate Professor Rohindra. He further explained that cassava, a staple across the Pacific Islands, has remarkable film-forming properties. By modifying cassava starch, the team has crafted a material that is safe to consume, environmentally sustainable, and commercially viable.
The economic implications for Fiji are promising. Rohindra expressed the potential for cassava-based wrappers to become a significant export product during a time when global demand for sustainable packaging is surging. “It’s not just about science, it’s about job creation, export growth, and leading the world in green innovation,” he emphasized.
The project demonstrates how Pacific nations can take a proactive approach to sustainability. As the world grapples with the challenges of plastic pollution and food waste, Fiji’s innovation offers a blueprint for sustainable development. By leveraging local resources and scientific advancements, the development of these cassava-based wrappers illustrates that small island nations can indeed create meaningful global changes.
With the right investment and supportive policies, this edible wrapper could soon become an integral part of everyday grocery shopping, providing both nourishment and environmental security. This effort not only positions Fiji at the forefront of sustainable innovation but also encourages an optimistic outlook for future advancements in eco-friendly practices globally.