26 Jul 2019 --- An Australian start-up has developed a biodegradable alternative to plastic food packaging produced from the chitin and cellulose contained in crustacean skeletons. The material – CARAPAC – has embedded anti-fungal properties that prevent mold or fungi from growing on fresh produce and it can extend the shelf-life of fresh fruit and vegetables by up to seven days. CARAPAC also improves the quality of soil by adding nutrients when it biodegrades, making it ideal for gardens and plants pots, as well as home composts. Although still in the product development phase, the team are commencing customer trials and partnering with a manufacturer for a potentially large-scale operation.
