Biodegradable bioplastic packaging from insects and fungi
Innovative biodegradable packaging combining chitosan from Black Soldier Fly Larvae and mushrooms, offering eco-friendly, high-performance materials. This solution supports circular economy models for both vegan and non-vegan markets.
Overview
This groundbreaking solution leverages the properties of chitosan from Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) and Agaricus bisporus mushrooms to create high-performance, biodegradable packaging. By aligning with circular economy principles, this research addresses the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The combination of BSFL and mushroom chitosan offers a blend of tensile strength, antimicrobial, UV-blocking, and antioxidant properties, making it suitable for active food packaging applications.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Chitosan sources: Utilizes exoskeletons from BSFL and fungal feedstock from mushrooms.
- Properties: Provides UV-blocking, antioxidant, antimicrobial capabilities, and enhanced tensile strength.
- Circular process: Converts waste products into valuable materials, promoting zero-waste production.
- Customization: Biopolymer can be crosslinked for varying mechanical properties depending on application needs.
Technology readiness level
The project is at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating that the concept has been validated in laboratory settings. Future validation plans include further refinement of the packaging materials and testing their properties for specific applications in food packaging.
About University of Bath
The University of Bath is a research‑intensive public university in Bath, England, with a campus‑based, mid‑sized profile and a strong record of collaboration with business and the public sector. Industry engagement is built into its model through extensive professional placements that embed students in corporate R&D and through collaborative facilities available to partners; its location in the Bristol–Bath innovation corridor gives access to a dense tech and advanced engineering cluster. A dedicated Research and Innovation Services unit and corporate partnerships team broker sponsored research, consultancy, and facility access, while a university‑backed incubator within the SETsquared partnership connects companies to mentors, investors, and talent. Research is supported by competitive funding from UK Research and Innovation councils and Innovate UK, alongside European programmes. Commercialization is managed by a technology transfer team that supports IP, licensing, and spinout formation.
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