From plastic to protein: edible cookies aim to tackle hunger and pollution

Researchers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale turn PET plastic into edible cookies called μBites by first breaking down plastic into a carbon-rich liquid through oxidative hydrothermal dissolution, then feeding it to engineered yeasts that synthesize proteins, fats, vitamins, and flavorings in a 32-step process. The dough is 3D-printed, can be microwaved, and the team envisions μBites helping address plastic pollution and global hunger (with potential space-food applications). However, taste tests are not yet performed, public acceptance remains a hurdle, and a consumer rollout is not imminent.