What is Cellulose, How is it Made, and Why It’s Better Than Plastic

Hello, eco-conscious bakers! It’s Grant from Happy Crumb Bakery, and today I want to talk about something that’s important to me and my business – sustainability. Specifically, I want to delve into what cellulose is, how it’s made, and why it’s a better alternative to plastic. As someone who strives to use environmentally friendly packaging, I believe it’s crucial to understand these materials and their impact.

What is Cellulose?

Cellulose is an organic compound found in the cell walls of plants. It’s the most abundant natural polymer on Earth and a major component of plant biomass. In simple terms, cellulose is what gives plants their structure and strength. It’s made up of glucose molecules linked together in a chain, forming a fibrous and sturdy material.

How is Cellulose Made?

The production of cellulose involves several steps:

1. Extraction: Cellulose is extracted from plant materials, such as wood pulp, cotton, or other plant fibres. This process typically involves mechanical or chemical methods to separate the cellulose from other components like lignin and hemicellulose.
   

2. Purification: Once extracted, the cellulose is purified to remove impurities and non-cellulosic materials. This ensures the cellulose is of high quality and suitable for various applications.
   

3. Processing: The purified cellulose can then be processed into different forms, such as fibres, films, or powders, depending on its intended use.

Why is Cellulose Better Than Plastic?

There are several reasons why cellulose is a superior alternative to plastic, particularly in packaging:

1. Biodegradability: Unlike plastic, cellulose is biodegradable. This means it can be broken down by natural processes, reducing environmental pollution and minimising waste in landfills.

2. Renewability: Cellulose is derived from renewable resources, such as plants, which can be sustainably grown and harvested. In contrast, plastic is made from non-renewable fossil fuels.
   

3. Reduced Carbon Footprint: The production and disposal of cellulose have a lower carbon footprint compared to plastic. This makes cellulose a more environmentally friendly option for packaging and other applications.

4. Non-Toxic: Cellulose is non-toxic and safe for use in food packaging. It doesn’t release harmful chemicals or microplastics into the environment, making it a healthier choice for both people and the planet.

At Happy Crumb Bakery, I’m committed to using sustainable materials like cellulose for our packaging. By choosing cellulose over plastic, we can all play a part in protecting the environment and reducing our ecological footprint. Thank you for supporting our efforts to create a more sustainable future. Happy baking!