VISAKHAPATNAM – Dr. Rasheeda Khanam, a faculty member at Gitam Deemed to be University, has been granted a patent for an innovative, eco-friendly bioplastic derived from a common dairy industry byproduct: ghee residue. This dark, mass-like substance, typically discarded by dairies, has no practical use and is often dumped in agricultural fields. Dr. Khanam’s research transforms this waste into a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic, suitable for various applications.
The patented bioplastic is made by blending a ghee residue extract with glycerol to provide flexibility. To enhance its durability and water resistance, she incorporates natural, hydrophobic compounds like beeswax, chitin, and zein protein. The resulting material is a biodegradable and non-toxic film that can be used for dry food packaging. Dr. Khanam states that it fully decomposes in water within 24 hours and in soil in approximately 20–30 days.
She explained that the current invention has been successfully tested for tensile strength and is now being trialed for packaging grains and other agricultural products. Future research aims to expand its application to seafood and other non-agro commodities. The bioplastic, which is structurally similar to hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, can also be composted into fertilizer after use. The process uses no synthetic chemicals, and the presence of phenolic compounds in the ghee residue helps preserve the packaged food with minimal toxicity, offering a significant advantage in the quest for sustainable packaging.