science πͺ Plastic waste is becoming 3D-printed cookies
Scientists have successfully turned plastic trash into protein-rich, 3D-printed cookies as a sustainability solution. This innovative process is being conducted by researchers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, utilizing NASA-funded projects. The transformation involves breaking down PET plastic with biomass, which is then consumed by engineered microbes. These microbes convert the plastic into a nutrient-dense paste, which is finally shaped into cookies using a 3D food printer. While awaiting human testing approval, the cookies currently cost $60 per kilogram. πͺ