Developing biofilms with banana waste

A study on banana waste valorisation and the development of biodegradable biofilms was undertaken by researchers, Sony Kumari, Rahel Debbarma, Munquad Habibi, and Shakil Haque from the department of applied biology at Meghalaya’s University of Science and Technology, and Penna Suprasanna, from Amity Institute of Biotechnology in Mumbai.

Published in May 2025, the study attempts to address the need to valorise banana agro-waste to produce biodegradable biofilms as sustainable alternatives for plastic packaging.

The published article examines the ability of banana starch and fibre to create sustainable and robust biodegradable films that can be used to preserve food. The study emphasises how banana waste has untapped potential as a useful resource for promoting sustainable innovation and the circular bioeconomy. In addition, recent study and research suggests that the pseudo-stem of bananas can be used as a raw material for the production of pulp and paper.

Around 31.5% of the global banana production comes from India. Global banana output is predicted to grow at a rate of 1.5% per year, reaching about 135-million tonnes by 2028. Post-harvest, 5–10% of bananas are wasted due to defects or issues with exportability. Recent research examines methods for utilising discarded bananas, such as producing banana flour.

Concerns about sustainability and the need to look for single-use plastic alternatives have spurred the development of biodegradable materials as an alternative to conventional plastic packaging.

Pseudo-stems from bananas, which make up 20–30% of the total biomass of plants, are the building blocks for the production of biopolymer films, especially cellulose, which can form films and demonstrate strength and biodegradability. Pseudo-stem-derived cellulose has been used to create biodegradable packaging sheets with mechanical stability and water resistance that are appropriate for food preservation. 

In addition, there are research studies examining banana leaves as single-use products, such as plates and food containers, as well as biodegradable wrappers. By inhibiting microbial development, the phytochemicals improve health and prolong the shelf life of packaged goods.

The goal of recent research has been to create bio-composite films that combine extracts from banana leaves with other natural polymers to improve mechanical and barrier qualities while preserving biodegradability. Waste-to-resource valorisation paths are further supported by their composability.

The promise of banana fibres in sustainable manufacturing is demonstrated by their uses in paper, textiles, and reinforced composites. 

Valorising banana waste addresses environmental concerns and presents opportunities for economic development and job creation. Companies adopting such innovations can meet consumer expectations for sustainability while demonstrating environmental responsibility.