KERALA DUO INNOVATES ECO-FRIENDLY EDIBLE WRAPPERS

UPSC Relevance

• GS-3: Environment & Science and Technology – Alternatives to Plastic, Sustainable Innovations, Biotechnology
• GS-2: Governance & Policy – Promoting Innovation for Public Good, Support for Research & Development

Key Points: Sustainable Packaging Breakthrough

• Two students from Kerala created edible food wrappers using bacterial cellulose to combat plastic waste.
• Named ‘Eden Wrap’, the wrappers are biodegradable, decompose within a month, and mimic plastic’s appearance.

Scientific Foundation & Materials

• The wrappers are made from cellulose-producing bacteria, with essential oils from specific plants providing anti-microbial properties.
• They help prolong food shelf life by serving as a protective barrier.

Development Journey

• Developed by Ashir Kariyattil and Mohammed Nabin at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani.
• The concept was refined through industry mentor feedback and participation in competitions.
• Mentorship, academic resources, and small grants supported their research.

Next Steps & Research Support

• The team aims to secure a patent and collaborate with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
• Future plans include market research and product testing to ensure commercial feasibility.

Analysis & Future Directions

• This innovation tackles plastic pollution, a critical environmental issue in food packaging.
• Supporting student-driven green innovations through funding, incubation, and intellectual property assistance is crucial.
• Scaling up via public-private partnerships can advance India’s sustainability objectives.