Toasting eco wrapping

THINKING outside the box has opened up global opportunities for UK packaging pioneer Shellworks and its ingenious natural material Vivomer that's a compostable replacement for plastic.

- Maisha Frost

Based on polymer substances grown in bacterial cells and involving fermentation, Vivomer is durable enough to withstand both heat and humidity. It also has a long shelf-life and biodegrades in any environment - key features that form the bedrock of sustainable production.

The brainchild of Imperial College graduates Insiya Jafferjee, Shellworks chief executive, and director Amir Afshar, the business launched six years ago and, after a million-pound turnover last year, is aiming to hit £10m come 2026. Among the brands it collaborates with are People Care, Planet Care and Wild which sells in Boots and Tesco.