Seaweed Packaging: The Ocean’s Answer to Plastic Waste
As the world grapples with plastic pollution, a surprising hero has emerged from the ocean: seaweed. Once primarily associated with food and marine ecosystems, seaweed is now at the forefront of sustainable innovation, particularly in packaging. From edible water capsules to biodegradable takeaway boxes, this fast-growing marine plant is reshaping how we think about waste, consumption, and the future of materials.
Where Did Seaweed Packaging Come From?
The idea of using seaweed as a material is not entirely new. In fact, seaweed-derived substances were used as early as the 1930s to create imitation foods such as “fake caviar.” (WIRED) However, its application in packaging is a much more recent development, driven largely by the global plastic crisis.
Modern seaweed packaging gained momentum in 2013, when two design students at Imperial College London developed an edible water capsule made from brown seaweed. This invention, later named Ooho, was designed as a natural alternative to plastic bottles. (notpla.com) The project evolved into a company, Notpla (short for “not plastic”), founded in 2014, which has since become one of the leading innovators in this space. (packaginginsights.com)
The urgency behind such innovation is clear: over 8 billion tonnes of plastic have been produced globally, with the majority ending up in landfill or oceans. (WIRED) Additionally, around half of all plastic packaging is used just once before being discarded. (Ingenia) These figures have driven researchers and entrepreneurs to explore renewable, biodegradable alternatives like seaweed.
Innovative Uses of Seaweed in Packaging
Seaweed’s unique properties make it ideal for packaging. It is flexible, strong, and naturally forms a barrier against air and moisture. It also requires no freshwater, fertiliser, or land to grow, making it significantly more sustainable than traditional crops. (notpla.com)
One of the most well-known innovations is the Ooho edible water pod. These small, bubble-like containers can hold liquids such as water, juice, or even sauces. They are fully biodegradable and can decompose in as little as four to six weeks—or be eaten entirely. (Ingenia) Trials at events like the London Marathon in 2019 demonstrated their potential, eliminating tens of thousands of single-use plastic items. (Ellen MacArthur Foundation)
Beyond liquid packaging, seaweed is now being used in:
- Takeaway food containers with seaweed-based coatings replacing plastic linings
- Sachets and films for condiments and ready meals
- Dissolvable packaging for products like coffee or sauces
In Indonesia, companies such as Evoware have developed seaweed-based sachets for instant coffee and seasoning, offering edible wrappers that dissolve in hot water. (Packaging Dive) Meanwhile, in the United States, startups like Loliware have experimented with edible cups and straws made from seaweed-derived agar since around 2010. (WIRED)
Edible Possibilities: Packaging You Can Eat
One of the most exciting aspects of seaweed innovation is its edible potential. Unlike traditional packaging, which becomes waste immediately after use, seaweed-based materials can be consumed as part of the product experience.
Edible packaging aligns closely with food culture. Imagine:
- Energy gel “pearls” for athletes that can be eaten whole
- Sauce sachets that dissolve directly into cooking
- Coffee packets that melt into hot water
These ideas are already being tested. For example, seaweed-based energy gels have been trialled at sporting events, while dissolvable food packets are under development for everyday use. (The Times)
The PlantSea Pods are designed to encapsulate liquid formulas ©PlantSea
This approach not only reduces waste but also redefines packaging as something functional and even enjoyable.
Global Growth and Statistics
The rise of seaweed packaging is part of a broader shift towards circular design and sustainable materials. Investment in companies like Notpla has grown significantly, with millions raised to scale production and expand globally. (packaginginsights.com)
Seaweed itself is a highly scalable resource. Some species can grow up to a metre per day, making it one of the fastest-growing organisms on Earth. (WIRED) Its cultivation also helps absorb carbon and reduce ocean acidity, adding environmental benefits beyond packaging. (notpla.com)
Today, millions of seaweed-based packaging units are being produced and trialled at major venues and events, signalling a shift from experimental concept to real-world application. (The Times)
Where Is It Heading in the Future?
The future of seaweed packaging looks promising, but it is still in its early stages. Current challenges include scaling production, ensuring cost competitiveness, and adapting materials for different uses. However, momentum is building.
Looking ahead, we can expect:
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Mainstream adoption in takeaway food, retail, and events
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Expanded edible packaging across food and beverage industries
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New applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and household goods
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Integration into circular economies, where packaging leaves no trace
There is also growing interest in combining seaweed with other biomaterials to create hybrid solutions that match or exceed the performance of plastic.
Evoware (above)
Final Thoughts
Seaweed packaging represents a shift in how we design materials—moving from wasteful, fossil-fuel-based products to regenerative, nature-inspired solutions. What began as small-scale experiments in student kitchens has evolved into a global movement with the potential to redefine entire industries.
In a world increasingly defined by environmental challenges, seaweed offers a simple yet powerful idea: packaging that works with nature, not against it.
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If you like this article please follow me @Goodordering or @jacqui__ma . This blog is a semi-organised brain dump of everything that inspires, perplexes or catches my eye! I am a designer, trend forecaster and independent brand founder living in East London, UK with my rainbow family. For advertising or collaborations please contact jacqui@goodordering.com