Southern Illinois University researchers develop edible cookies from plastic waste

Researchers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale have developed a method to convert PET plastic waste and agricultural byproducts into edible, protein-rich cookies called ‘µBites’. The project, which was part of NASA’s Deep Space Food Challenge, aims to provide sustainable food sources for long-duration space missions, disaster relief, and areas facing food insecurity.

The process involves breaking down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using high temperature, pressure, water, and oxygen to create small carbon-rich molecules. Specially engineered yeast strains then consume these molecules to produce essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, and vitamins like beta-carotene. Other modified yeast strains have been used to create vanilla flavoring from plant biomass.

The resulting nutrient mash is combined with fiber, starch, and sweeteners before being shaped using a 3D printer. While laboratory tests indicate the cookies are free of toxins, researchers are currently awaiting institutional approval to conduct human taste tests. The current production cost is estimated at approximately $60 per kilogram.