Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films manufacturer MonoSol (Merrillville, Indiana / USA; www.monosol.com) has developed an edible, water-soluble film for packaging applications. Termed “Vivos” Edible Delivery Systems, the films are intended for pre-portioned pouches that conveniently deliver food products such as warm breakfast meals and instant coffees and teas. Vivos systems are designed for use in either hot or cold water, and are safe to eat along with their contents.

The patent-pending Vivos films are reported to be composed of a proprietary blend of food-grade ingredients. Films are transparent, have no smell or taste and exhibit a low oxygen transmission rate. They are converted into bags and pouches using existing technologies.

A highly convenient method for portion control, Vivos has the additional sustainability benefit of not having any primary packaging to discard. There will be operation gains for the food service industry and/or food manufacturers. Products can be customised to provide specific colours or regional flavours, and the contents can be compartmentalised, if desired. Potential applications include the packaging of sauces and soups, pastas and rice, proteins and work-out supplements. MonoSol says the edible films can be tailored to individual customer and product requirements.

MonoSol was acquired by Japanese chemicals producer Kuraray (Tokyo; www.kuraray.co.jp) earlier this year as part of a strategy to expand its vinyl acetate chemical chains operation and become a global leader in the PVA film business, for both optical and industrial applications – see Plasteurope.com of 27.07.2012. The financial details of this transaction were not disclosed.