60-Day Produce Packaging

Led by Dr. Preetam Sarkar, the Department of Food Process Engineering is transforming agricultural waste into eco-friendly food packaging. Instead of discarding crop byproducts, the team repurposes them into biodegradable films that naturally protect fresh produce.

“Jackfruit seeds, typically cast aside after a hearty feast, are abundant in starch — a natural polymer that, when processed, forms a robust base for biodegradable films. Similarly, jamun seeds bring their own unique properties to the fore. Litchi seeds, although petite, pack a starch-filled punch, contributing to the strength and flexibility of the resulting packaging," said Dr Preetam.

To boost their performance, the films are infused with nanoparticles such as zinc oxide, chitosan, and lignin, which impart antimicrobial and antioxidant properties to help guard against bacteria such as E. coli and Bacillus cereus. Using a simple dipping method, fruits are coated with a thin protective layer that extends freshness. To add to the benefits, the films are fully biodegradable and break down within 60 days.

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