EU’s SeaFilm seeks to substitute single-use plastic with algae

In Belgium, the most common technique in the world of food packaging is single-use plastic films. With a little help from the EU, the SeaFilm food packaging project aims to create a substitute for single-use plastic film in conserving frozen fish. As the name indicates, the new packaging film comes from the sea and is based on bioactive seaweed extracts and edible algae. It helps to conserve frozen seafood for longer while maintaining the quality. A promising project in line with the EU objectives of fighting plastic pollution, reducing food waste, and boosting the algae sector.

The SeaFilm project is looking to provide the industry with a new algae-based edible solution to replace plastic films whilst increasing product shelf life through the incorporation of bioactive seaweed extracts. After defrosting the frozen fish, the biodegradable film can either be disposed of or simply eaten along with the fish. In the latter case, the edible film could even include seasonings to create a meal that is tasty, convenient and easy to cook.