Plastic and Agricultural Waste Converted into Food with the Help of Yeast

Researchers at Southern Illinois University in the US have paved the way for food production from waste by developing a new system that can convert plastic and agricultural waste into the raw materials of edible products.

Waste Processing Procedure

In the system, alongside PET plastics, agricultural waste such as corn stalks and leaves are used. These materials are processed under high temperature and pressure in the presence of oxygen and water, breaking them down into carbon-containing building blocks.

Yeast Cultures and Ingredients

The liquid raw material obtained as a result of the process is brought together with specially developed yeast cultures. By using different yeast strains, the production of basic food components such as protein, fat, vitamins, aroma, and color is ensured. One of the yeast strains genetically engineered by the researchers produces vanillin, giving the product a vanilla flavor, while another provides beta-carotene pigment.

Three-Dimensional Printers and Baking

The obtained ingredients are turned into dough, shaped using 3D food printers, and baked in a microwave oven. These cookies resulting from the study are named µBites.

Safety Tests and Goals

Although laboratory analyses reported no toxic chemicals, heavy metals, or food pathogens found in the product, simulated digestion and safety studies prior to human consumption are ongoing. The system aims to be used for food production in challenging environments such as disaster zones, deserts, polar regions, submarines, and future Moon or Mars missions.