We’re witnessing more and more of the havoc that our discarded plastic products are wreaking on the environment and living creatures. The oceans are full of plastic and its inhabitants are eating it, becoming entangled in it and even being strangled by it. According to National Geographic, more than 8 million tons of plastic are dumped into our oceans every year.
Thankfully, companies are now manufacturing biodegradable plastics including biodegradable water filters, biodegradable cutlery, plates, straws, cups, boxes, and ponchos, and edible/biodegradable plastic bags.
A company called LOLIWARE offers eco-conscious consumers vibrantly colored and edible flavored cups and straws. They plan to produce water bottles, tableware and packaging in the future. The straws and cups are plastic-free, non-GMO, completely natural, non-toxic, gluten-free, gelatin-free, BPA-free, safe, and FDA approved. Delicious flavors include Yuzu Citrus, Tart Cherry, Matcha Green Tea, Vanilla Bean, and an unflavored “natural clear.” Four new Mexican-inspired flavors called The Frida Collection will be manufactured once LOLIWARE receives 2,500 pre-orders. The Frida is a blend of passion fruit, hibiscus, and cactus fruit (prickly pear). The other three are Mango, Coconut Water, and Watermelon. Yum!
Edible Plastic Cup, Photo from LOLIWARE Facebook
The healthy ingredients of these edible plastics are seaweed and organic sweeteners and flavors. Their vivid colors come from fruits and vegetables. The cups and straws can be composted, eaten (zero calories!), or just thrown out after use. They decompose naturally in 60 days, and are hyper-compostable.
The website reminds us that, “Seaweed is a renewable resource that does not require land resources and actually absorbs CO2…” LOLIWARE’s goal is to replace the 500 million plastic straws discarded each day.
The inventors of the LOLIWARE line, Chelsea Briganti and Leigh Ann Tucker, are designers who are passionate about the environment. Using “biodegr(edible)” cups and straws is a fun and delicious way protect the environment!
