Researchers from Northwestern University’s INVO Lab and Chang Robotics have made a significant breakthrough in developing a new sustainable packaging solution that could potentially replace plastic in food packaging, paper plates, and disposable utensils.
The innovation, known as GOEco, involves infusing paper products with microscopic amounts of graphene oxide, a naturally occurring nanomaterial. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the risk of microplastic particles and PFAs (poly-fluoroalkyl substances) in food supplies.
The use of plastic packaging has been a concern for many years, as experts have warned about the dangers of “forever chemicals” accumulating in our bodies and food supplies. Consumer protection agencies have been urging suppliers to keep PFA substances out of the environment and away from human consumption.
The development of GOEco is a collaborative effort between Dr. SonBinh Nguyen of Northwestern University and Dr. Tim Wei, a former dean of engineering at a Big 10 university. The team has successfully formulated and manufactured graphene oxide and tested its use on disposable tableware.
According to Chang Robotics CEO Matthew Chang, the technology behind GOEco has the potential to impact not only the food supply but also public health. The testing has also shown that the new packaging is highly effective in maintaining food freshness by inhibiting the transfer of moisture, oil, or gases between the food and the surrounding environment.
The company is currently working with industry partners to pursue regulatory evaluations to determine the safety of graphene oxide for food packaging use and obtain FDA approvals. The company is also welcoming commercial partnerships in advancing this discovery.
While more research is needed to fully understand the implications of this technology, the development of GOEco is an exciting step towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solution.
