Styrofoam containers replaced with starch

An American company has developed a novel class of biodegradable, mouldable containers that can hold food products in dry, damp or wet conditions.

New Ice will be manufacturing environmentally friendly containers from potato starch, which is plentiful, inexpensive and renewable. Starch is also readily biodegradable and does not persist in the environment for a significant period after disposal.

“We came up with the concept about six years ago and have spent the intervening time developing and testing the formulation and investing in the concept. Everything is coming together now, ” said Giles Instone, New Ice founder.

The product line, available in a few months, will conform to American Society for Testing and Materials standard (ASTM* D6400) and will be able to replace environmentally harmful plastic and Styrofoam food container products.

“We expect to soon market a number of products that are functional, cost-effective and truly compostable. Early interest from potential customers and partners is encouraging,” said Instone.

The company initially will be providing products to packagers of fruit and vegetables, followed by meats and poultry.