GoKawiilSIU Researchers 3D-Print Cookies Using Plastic-Eating Engineered Yeast
Scientists at Southern Illinois University Carbondale used CRISPR-edited yeast strains to break down PET plastic and plant waste into edible proteins, fats, and flavor compounds, which were then 3D printed into small cookie-shaped snacks called 'ÂBites.' The plastic is first broken down using heat, water, and oxygen before the yeast converts it into a food-like slurry, though the team has not yet tasted the cookies pending university approval.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The project points to a potential new frontier in tackling plastic pollution by literally converting waste into consumable material, rather than just recycling or destroying it. However, the process currently costs around $60 per kilogram of cookies, underscoring that this remains a lab curiosity rather than a scalable solution, and experts caution against overselling biotech fixes for systemic waste problems.
- Engineered yeast converts broken-down PET plastic and plant biomass into proteins, fats, and flavor compounds
- The resulting mixture is 3D printed into cookie-shaped snacks called ÂBites
- Production costs around $60 per kilogram, and researchers haven't yet eaten the cookies due to pending approvals
Anycubic Kobra 3D Printer — This story's cookies came off a 3D printer, and the Anycubic Kobra brings that same layer-by-layer magic to your desk. It's a great entry point for tinkerers who want to design and print their own shapes — Greek letters included.
See Anycubic Kobra 3D Printer on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: science.slashdot.org — Posted, 2026-08-30
Published there as: “Scientists Turn Plastic Waste Into Edible Cookies”
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