CBC: Student Invents Edible Utensils to Replace Plastics To Reduce Environmental Pollution
Sheryl Mboya, the 22-year-old student studying law at Mount Kenya University, in an attempt to replace non-biodegradable plastic plates and cups, invented “Snackuit”, edible ones. Her invention caught the world’s attention at the Stockholm Environment Meeting which took place last month.
She noted that edible plates and cups would replace traditional plastic ones and are environmentally friendly.
“Snackuit utensils are sustainable alternative to single-use traditional plastic as they can be eaten after the finishing a meal, ”she said at the conference.
The law student compared products with ice cream cones, ice cream and sorbet. According to her, the aviation industry, is the largest user of single-use plastics and she is targeting the sector.
She encourages individual consumption adding that the products are healthy, durable and reliable, it is due to built-in mechanism for liquid retantion.
She explained that the structure developed is perfect where it can bite but at the same time it can hold liquids.
Sheryl added that the products are made from common edible ingredients which are suitable for everyone not withstanding those on dietary restrictions, people’s beliefs, health conditions and age. The product is allergen-free and uses gluten-free flours.
Gluten-free flour is the main ingredient in the production of Mboya’s edible kitchen utensils, an aspect of the product that caters to consumers with a gluten allergy. However, Mboya says sugar substitutes are added to ensure the taste.
The Snackuit team has partnered with the national carrier – Kenya Airways – to make the products and plans are underway to implement them across the country’s entire aviation industry once completed.
Mboya’s edible kitchen utensils are available in different flavors to suit the diverse market. Her futuristic invention aims to lower the harsh effects of climate change caused by non-biodegradable plastics.
