Science
Researchers turn recycled plastic into edible cookies using genetically modified yeast
A NASA-funded project aims to feed astronauts on deep-space missions using 3D-printed nutrients derived from waste plastic.
The short version
- Scientists have developed a method to convert polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic and agricultural waste into edible proteins, fats, and flavorings.
- The resulting nutrient-dense slurry is processed through a 3D printer to produce disc-shaped cookies.
- The technology is designed to help sustain astronauts on long-duration space voyages, such as a three-year round-trip to Mars, and could have applications in extreme environments on Earth.
Key facts
- The research, led by microbiologist Dr. Lahiru Jayakody at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, was funded by NASA's Deep Space Food Challenge.[The Guardian]
- The process breaks down PET plastic using water and oxygen at high temperatures and pressures, then feeds the resulting carbon-rich molecules to genetically engineered yeast.[The Guardian]
- The yeast converts the plastic-derived carbon into biological nutrients like proteins and fats, which are mixed with starch and 3D-printed.[The Guardian]
- Production of the cookies currently costs $60 per kilogram, though researchers hope to lower costs by improving yeast efficiency and scaling up.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The safety and taste of the cookies remain unverified by humans, as the research team is still awaiting institutional approval to conduct human testing.[The Guardian]
Sources
- ‘Cookies’ made from plastic may be on the menu for future astronautsThe Guardian - Science