Seaweed-based film promises new future for packaging

Food packaging could soon take a major step toward circularity thanks to a new seaweed‑based plastic film developed by researchers at Aberystwyth University’s Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS).

The innovation, detailed in Algal Research, demonstrates how alginate extracted from seaweed can be transformed into a biodegradable, transparent, plastic‑like film suitable for wrapping food — offering a credible alternative to conventional fossil‑fuel plastics.

The material is created by combining alginate with other biological compounds to improve strength, elasticity and water resistance, addressing key performance requirements for food packaging. The extract is processed into a powder, mixed with water, heated and cast into moulds to form thin films.

Early testing shows promising results across mechanical strength, antibacterial properties, and barrier performance, making it a strong candidate for replacing single‑use plastic films used widely across fresh produce, bakery, chilled foods and ready‑to‑eat categories.

Dr Jessica Adams, who leads the research, highlights the material’s environmental advantage: films made from alginate are fully biodegradable, breaking down naturally without leaving microplastics behind. This positions the material as a circular solution, especially relevant as the food industry faces mounting pressure to reduce plastic waste and comply with tightening sustainability regulations.

For manufacturers, the benefits extend beyond sustainability. Seaweed‑based films offer:

• Improved environmental credentials — a renewable, UK‑grown feedstock supporting local supply chains.
• Potential antibacterial functionality — adding value for fresh and minimally processed foods.
• A transparent, flexible film format — compatible with existing wrapping applications.
• A route to reducing reliance on fossil‑fuel plastics, which currently account for nearly a third of global plastic production.

The project, supported by BBSRC and food producer Samworth Brothers, signals growing industry appetite for bio‑derived packaging innovations that can scale. With 15 billion kg of plastic entering marine environments annually, the emergence of seaweed‑based films represents a meaningful step toward a more sustainable packaging ecosystem.