Ford and Heinz (a food company) are starting to develop technology for creating various fasteners, containers, and other trim elements from tomato fiber and dried tomato peel. Both companies claim that processed food waste can replace some types of plastic.
"Our goal is to create a durable and lightweight material that meets the requirements of car manufacturers, while reducing the negative impact of production on the environment," said Ellen Lee, a plastics research specialist at Ford.
Ford has not been noticed for the first time in its commitment to environmentally friendly technologies. Two years ago, they began collaborating with The Coca-Cola Company, Nike Inc., and Procter & Gamble to develop materials, plastic substitutes, 100% made from environmentally friendly materials. Heinz initially was looking for ways to use tomato waste, stems, and seeds, which are waste products in the production of their famous ketchup.
