UK University of Cambridge spin-off startup Xampla is on a mission to help companies reduce their reliance on single-use plastic and instead make the transition to innovative, earth-friendly alternatives like its plant protein packaging. The startup's high-performance plastic replacements can be found in the form of plant-based, edible sachets, microcapsules and coatings and according to Xampla, the plant protein packaging actually extends the shelf life of ingredients and products.
"Our technology is a world-first, capable of replacing the most polluting plastics at scale and delivering performance parity," says Xampla, "At the end of their life, our materials can even be ‘bio-assimilated’ as food for microorganisms in the soil, effectively turning packaging into fertilizer." While the company's first materials were developed with vegan spider silk and plant protein, its technology can use other raw materials like legumes and agricultural waste.
UK meal kit retailer Gousto implemented Xampla's vegan, edible, stock-cube wrapper made from pea protein for its Indian Spiced Carrot & Lentil soup.
Edible Plant-Based Wrappers
Xampla Makes Edible, Biodegradable Plant Protein Packaging
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Packaging - Xampla's plant protein packaging offers an innovative and biodegradable alternative to single-use plastic packaging.
2. Edible Wrappers - Xampla's edible sachets, microcapsules, and coatings provide a sustainable solution for reducing plastic waste.
3. Shelf Life Extension - According to Xampla, their plant protein packaging not only reduces plastic pollution but also extends the shelf life of ingredients and products.
Industry Implications
1. Food Packaging - Xampla's plant-based packaging presents an disruptive innovation opportunity for the food packaging industry by offering sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastic packaging.
2. Retail - Implementing Xampla's edible, plant-based wrappers can differentiate retailers and address consumer concerns about plastic waste, providing a sustainable advantage in the retail industry.
3. Sustainable Materials - Other industries such as cosmetics and personal care can explore the use of Xampla's plant protein packaging to replace single-use plastics and promote a more sustainable approach to product packaging.