Scotland-based Rockwell Solutions claims its BioSteam self-venting pouch is compostable, heat sealable and peelable against itself after it has been microwaved. Over the past five years packaging suppliers have been introducing various forms of biodegradable plastics made from a variety of plants, in the main corn, based on projections that consumers and recycling regulations will drive demand for environmentally-friendly packaging . Some companies predict that the market will grow by about 20 per cent a year, as an alternativeto petroleum-based packaging such as the widely-used polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Rockwell said its steamer pouch is the first of its kind to be made out of PLA. The polymer is made out of corn and is produced in the US by NatureWorks, a ConAgra subsidiary. BioSteam self-vents in about 40 seconds without any pre-inserted valve or vent, the company claimed. "The result is a superior tasting product that is evenly cooked throughout the pouch, without over cooking or drying out in the corners of the pack," stated Rockwell. It can be used for steaming frozen vegetables, proteins and carbohydrates. The glass clear PLA is based film available as roll stock or as pre made pouches. All materials used in the construction of the product conform to US and European standards for food contact materials, the company stated.
