Plastic is used for food packaging because it is widely available and cheap. However some plastics are not recyclable and those plastics contaminate the environment.

This has led to a push for the creation of food packaging that can break down safely and naturally. These packages keep food fresh, protect the environment, and can be used as fertilizer.

Chris Wilson, a masters student in the School of Packaging at Michigan State University, studies how to make food packaging safe and more environmentally friendly. His research could impact food security around the globe.