Maine scientists are testing tree pulp and seaweed as PFAS alternatives

Credit: Linda Coan O'Kresik / BDN

“Tree pulp and seaweed — two readily available natural resources in Maine — could replace the harmful coatings of “forever chemicals” that had been used widely until recently in food wrappers if several projects underway in the state reach commercial production.

University of Maine researchers are developing highly refined pulp cellulose and seaweed coatings that could add grease- and oil-resistance properties to paper. They are similar in function to, but safer than, certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, that have been used.

The paper industry has already expressed interest in potentially producing PFAS-free coated paper using the university’s work, although commercial production is several years off. A Portland-based start-up, Everything Seaweed, also is developing seaweed-based materials as an eco-friendly replacement for PFAS food packaging coatings.

Their work comes at a time when Maine lawmakers have made aggressive moves to require manufacturers selling products in the state to disclose which of them contain PFAS. The chemicals have been linked to various health issues, including kidney and testicular cancers, and decreased birth weights. In addition to getting on food through items such as fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags and take-out paperboard containers, PFAS can get into drinking water sources after wrappers are discarded into landfills.

In February 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said substances containing PFAS used as grease-proofing agents on paper and paperboard that expose people through their diet are no longer being sold by manufacturers into the U.S. market. That adds to the incentive for Maine researchers to look into pulp and seaweed to develop eco-friendly coatings from materials that are abundant and inexpensive in the state.”

Quote from www.bangordailynews.com