According to the UN, we produce about 300 million tons of plastic waste every year – nearly the equivalent to the weight of the entire human population – but only 14 percent of that is recycled, while the rest ends up in landfills and polluting our oceans. Food packaging, particularly, is one of the major contributors to this global rubbish problem. But one company might have a tasty solution to cut down our use of plastic dishware.
South African startup Munch Bowls has created a biodegradable bowl made from wheat, which you can eat as part of your meal. The bowls are vegan, can hold hot soup for up to five hours and have a shelf life of 15 months, according to the company.
The bowls have a wholesale price of $0.33, which is slightly more expensive than plastic alternatives. However, the startup’s products are entirely plant-based and include rooibos extract, which is a natural South African preservative that is high in antioxidants, making it a worthy addition to a healthy diet.
By the end of next year, the startup hopes to install six production lines and to make other products such as spoons, coffee cups, and containers for meals on flights.
