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Though the edible packaging industry is still in the experimental phase, it's being used already in a few ways. Some foods are delivered to grocery stores already in their own edible waxes and coatings. Fruits and vegetables are often sprayed with wax to prevent the loss of moisture. Many types of candies have an edible confectioners glaze to protect them.
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The purpose of edible wraps is to protect the product from oxygen, oils and moisture. Traditional bags and boxes will still be needed for sanitary reasons, but there won't need to be as much packaging as in prior years, which can cut back on costs and waste. Some edible films can also enhance the flavor of food products as well as protect them.
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Edible packaging is a film or coating that adheres to the product, or can be an actual container made from various materials. At Oregon State University's department of Food Science and Technology, scientists have come up with an edible wrap comprised of crab and shrimp shells, protein from egg whites and lysozyme. Pea starch mixed with beeswax has also been experimented with. There are new recipes being explored and patented currently that use dairy products and fruits.
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In addition to being environmentally friendly, many of these new edible packages can also be a good source of vitamins. Edible packaging can also contribute to extending shelf life of certain products, such as apples that have a tendency to turn brown once cut into slices and exposed to air.
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Still in the developmental stages, edible packaging is expected to be the way of the future. Consumers are driving the demand for more environmentally friendly and biodegradable options to the traditional paper and plastic currently being used. However, due to the cost of research, it may be awhile before these eco-friendly wrappers will be seen in stores.
