They create a film made of avocado that detects and alerts food deterioration

Scientists from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore have developed a biodegradable food wrap that can detect spoilage and protect against microbial contamination. This ecological plastic wrap is made from discarded fruit seeds, and its creators see it as a sustainable option compared to traditional plastic packaging.

The key ingredients of the wrapper are the peel and seeds of the avocado since they contain catechin and chlorogenic acid, compounds known for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties. These compounds help prevent oxidation and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the food over time. Starch taken from the durian and jackfruit seeds to make the material.

But beyond its protective qualities, the appeal of the packaging created by the scientists in Sinagpur is that it also serves as a visual indicator of food spoilage. A natural compound found in avocado, called perseorangin, changes color in response to changes in the pH levels of the food. When bacteria break down the amino acids in protein-rich foods, they produce nitrogen compounds, which increase the pH inside the container. This change makes the envelope change color from translucent yellow to dark brown, indicating that the food has spoiled.

In tests, the packaging was able to detect the deterioration of some shrimp up to two days before the food showed visible signs of decomposition. This early warning system could significantly reduce food waste and prevent disease transmitted by food.

The teacher William Chendirector of NTU’s food science and technology program, emphasized the potential impact of this innovation. “By harnessing the power of nature, we have created a food wrap that can significantly reduce food waste,” he said. “This is a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly food system.”

Plastic wrap appeared commercially in the middle of the last century, and since then it has become a permanent presence in modern kitchens due to its ductility to adhere to any plate or bowl, and its low price; Although it can be recycled, not everyone takes the trouble to put it in the separate trash, which contributes to the spread of microplastics around the world.