Category: Biopolymers

The US FDA recognizes Zein, a protein derived from corn, as a 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) biological material. This natural biopolymer’s unique properties, including its biocompatibility and biodegradability, are unlocking a multitude of benefits across various industries, from medicine to food science.

According to scientific literature, protein-based biopolymers, including collagen, are widely studied as viable alternatives to synthetic packaging materials due to growing environmental concerns. This natural protein is, in fact, used as an edible coating to help preserve food products, especially within the meat industry.

According to the USDA, non-organic forms of pullulan are still necessary because organic versions are not always readily available. This highlights a common misconception about the biopolymer, with many consumers questioning, "is pullulan organic?".

Over 30,000 metric tons of commercial alginate are produced globally each year, primarily sourced from brown seaweed. While brown algae are the most common source, the chemical structure and properties of alginate can vary significantly depending on the species and even environmental factors. To determine the best source of alginate, it is crucial to compare the yield, purity, and functional characteristics of different species and alternative production methods.

Sodium alginate is a polysaccharide polymer, and contrary to being a fully synthetic substance, it is primarily sourced from marine brown algae. This natural origin is key to its widespread use across various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

The worldwide seafood industry generates millions of tons of waste annually, and the most abundant commercial source of chitosan comes from processing this crustacean waste. This versatile biopolymer is a derivative of chitin and is highly valued for its many biomedical, agricultural, and industrial applications.