Ugandan researchers create food packaging from maize waste

In Uganda, researchers at the Makerere University in Kampala have developed a biobased packaging from maize stover that could be used to prevent spoilage of fruits and vegetables. 

Dubbed Stoverpack and developed in collaboration with scientists at Bangor University’s BioComposites Centre, the new material could also boost incomes for Uganda’s rural farmers, most of whom are women. 

“The partnership that we have with Bangor University, and other partners, to use maize waste to produce packaging materials is an exciting opportunity for our farmers and others,” Dr. Stephen Lwasa tells Fresh Plaza. “ Post-harvest losses will be reduced, product quality will be maintained and opportunities to market these packaging materials and products in high end markets, will increase streams of incomes for those involved.”

Maize stover is comprised mostly of the leftover stalks after harvest. Maize is one of Uganda’s main crops.