CJ CheilJedang's biodegradable bio-material PHA has garnered attention from major U.S. media outlets.
On August 21, CJ CheilJedang announced that the Associated Press recently highlighted the biodegradability and diverse applications of PHA in an article presenting bioplastics as a solution to petroleum-based microplastic pollution.
The AP described CJ CheilJedang's U.S. subsidiary, CJ BioMaterials, as a 'leader in PHA production,' mentioning its research and development efforts to replace petroleum-based plastics and a wide range of commercialization examples, from disposable tableware and straws to various packaging materials and reusable paper towels.
This article has also been featured in prominent media such as the Washington Post, ABC News, the Los Angeles Times, and Boston NBC, drawing local interest.
PHA is a bio-material produced through the fermentation of plant-derived sugars, such as those from sugarcane, by microorganisms, and it is characterized by its ability to biodegrade in soil and marine environments. Only a few companies worldwide can produce it in large quantities, with CJ CheilJedang being the sole producer in South Korea.
CJ CheilJedang began mass production of PHA in 2022 at its dedicated production line in the Pasuruan bio-factory in Indonesia, currently ranking third in global production capacity.
Since launching its biodegradable material brand 'PHACT' in 2022, CJ CheilJedang has applied PHA to various products.
In the same year, it introduced a cleansing balm container made from PHA for the makeup brand 'Vanilla Co,' and in 2024, it developed PHA-based plastic packaging for the Olive Young same-day delivery service 'Today Dream.'
Last year, it partnered with Swedish bio-materials compounding company BIQ Materials to apply PHA as infill for artificial turf at a Swedish soccer field.
Starting this year, it has been supplying PHA straws to domestic coffee chains like Paul Bassett and a well-known coffee chain in the U.S.
In February, it unveiled a 'Kleenex washable biodegradable sanitary cloth' made solely from a blend of PHA, PLA, and pulp in collaboration with Kimberly-Clark and Eugene Hanil Chemical.
A CJ CheilJedang official stated, 'The biodegradability and high versatility of PHA as a future material are increasingly gaining attention,' adding, 'We will continue to introduce products utilizing PHA in various fields through ongoing research and development and external collaborations.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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