Biodegradable microbial biopolymers for moisture barrier food packaging

Overview

ExoPolymer is pioneering the development of novel, biodegradable microbial biopolymers designed to serve as moisture barriers in food packaging applications. Leveraging proprietary expertise in biosynthesis and production of natural polysaccharides, the company has identified a novel glucan with characteristics well-suited for packaging use. The biopolymers can be tailored in terms of molecular weight, charge, and polarity, enabling optimization for specific packaging requirements.

This technology addresses growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions by offering a biodegradable alternative to conventional petroleum-based moisture barriers. The approach combines microbial fermentation with advanced polymer engineering to produce materials that balance performance with environmental responsibility.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Novel portfolio of natural polysaccharides produced via microbial fermentation
• Cellulose-like glucan identified as candidate with desirable packaging properties
• Tunable molecular weight, charge, and polarity for application-specific optimization
• Hydrophobic characteristics suitable for moisture barrier functionality
• Scalable fermentation-based production process
• Biodegradable material profile supporting sustainability goals

Technology readiness level

The technology is at an early-to-mid development stage. Initial strain engineering to secrete the target polysaccharide is planned, followed by process development for scaled fermentation. ExoPolymer intends to engage a larger-scale fermentation facility to produce kilogram-level quantities of purified product within approximately six months. Initial material testing in food packaging applications will then be pursued through a research collaboration, with the goal of advancing to a longer-term development partnership upon demonstration of promising performance.