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Southern Illinois University plastic-to-food research
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2026-09-02 15:42 UTC → 2026-09-15 04:11 UTC ·
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Researchers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale have developed a method to convert plastic waste and agricultural scraps into edible food through 3D printing. The process, part of NASA’s ‘Deep Space Food Challenge’, uses oxidative hydrothermal dissolution to break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and biomass, such as corn stalks, into small carbon molecules. Genetically engineered yeast strains then consume these molecules to synthesize essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, and vitamins. Specific yeast strains have been modified to produce flavorings like vanillin and precursors like beta-carotene. These components are combined with fiber fiber, starch, and starch sweeteners to create a dough for 3D printing. The resulting products, referred to as ‘µBites’ or ‘microbites’, have been described as edible, protein-rich cookies. cookies or biscuits. These are intended to support food security in resource-limited environments, such as long-duration space missions, submarines, or disaster zones. While team members found the biscuits palatable during development, the product remains in an experimental stage and has not been authorized for commercial consumption. Although initial data suggests the product is safe and free of heavy metals or toxic chemicals, researchers have sought institutional are currently awaiting health authority approval for to conduct broader human taste testing. trials.
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- 2026-09-15 04:11 UTC Southern Illinois University plastic-to-food research
- 2026-09-02 15:42 UTC Southern Illinois University plastic-to-food research
- 2026-09-01 15:56 UTC Southern Illinois University plastic-to-food research
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