For years, plastic and PFAS-based coatings have kept our food safe from moisture, oil, and air. Yet as concerns grow over their environmental persistence and links to health issues like cancer and immune problems, the call for safer alternatives becomes ever more urgent.
That’s where GO-Eco comes in. Developed in collaboration with Chang Robotics and Northwestern University, this solution uses graphene oxide—a carbon-based nanomaterial—to create a robust barrier without relying on PFAS. Graphene oxide is carefully exfoliated into individual sheets and bonded to paper fibres, boosting strength and ensuring the package remains biodegradable or recyclable.
Independent tests at Western Michigan University’s Paper Pilot Plant confirm its promise. GO-Eco-treated paper absorbs 40% less water than traditional options and offers extended oil resistance. In fact, the treatment increases tensile strength by 27% and burst strength by 56%, all while nearly 100% of the graphene oxide binds to the fibre, minimising runoff and the risk of food contamination.
Though still in the early stages of commercial rollout, interest in GO-Eco is growing fast. By mid-2025, more than 15 organisations had signed NDAs and several companies are already planning pilot-scale production trials. From quick-service restaurant packaging to sustainable tableware, industry players are eager to explore this safer, PFAS-free solution.
This development is a welcome step for anyone concerned about the safety of food packaging. Experts like Dr Philip Kuriakose of Henry Ford Health highlight the real risks posed by these so-called ‘forever chemicals’. With clear performance benefits and strong safety credentials, GO-Eco offers a practical way forward for food brands, packaging suppliers, and regulators alike.
If you’ve ever worried about hidden toxins in your food’s packaging, this breakthrough provides reassuring news. Embracing GO-Eco means choosing a path that respects both public health and our environment.
