Food Waste Converted into Eco-Friendly Packaging at Bursa Technical University
With a new project initiated at Bursa Technical University, innovative biodegradable polymer composite films are being developed using food industry waste and fruit peels.
Within the scope of a new scientific study conducted at Bursa Technical University, it is aimed to produce eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging materials by utilizing leftover waste from the food industry and fruit peels.
Aim and Scope of the Project
The project launched within Bursa Technical University aims to reduce plastic use and reintegrate waste generated from the food industry back into the economy.
The official title of the study was announced as Development of Biodegradable Polymer-Based Composite Films Enriched with Food Industry Waste and Calcium Silicate Mineral.
Expert Team and Coordinator
The coordination of the project is undertaken by Neşe İşman, a PhD student in the Department of Polymer Materials Engineering.
The team also includes Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Terzioğlu, a faculty member in the Department of Polymer Materials Engineering, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aycan Yiğit Çınar, a faculty member in the Department of Food Engineering.
Fruit Peels Converted into Packaging
Fruit peel powders generated in the food industry will be integrated into the packaging production process using appropriate techniques.
By utilizing the natural components of fruit peels, next-generation packaging materials with the ability to protect food products will be obtained.
Laboratory Tests Will Be Conducted
These innovative packagings developed will undergo detailed tests in a laboratory environment.
During the tests, the durability levels, food protection performance, and biodegradability properties of the materials will be examined.
Sustainable and Alternative Solution
Project coordinator Neşe İşman emphasized that they aim to create a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging.
İşman stated that against the environmental problems caused by synthetic plastics, they want to prevent petroleum-based plastics by utilizing wastes such as fruit peels.
Message of Support from Rector Çağlar
BTU Rector Prof. Dr. Naci Çağlar stated that it is of great importance for knowledge produced at universities to provide solutions to social and environmental problems.
Rector Çağlar congratulated the academics and the student, stating that the project will make significant contributions to the understanding of sustainability and circular economy.