How sustainable and scalable nanomaterials are reconstructing the future of food-safe packaging.
For decades, plastic and PFAS-based coatings have served as invisible armor in food packaging, providing important protection against moisture, oil and air. However, these materials are currently under intense global scrutiny of the connection between environmental sustainability and human health risks. Known as “eternal chemicals,” PFA does not break down naturally, but accumulates in the body, increasingly linked to cancer, immune dysfunction and infertility.
New laws, including the implementation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA), have come into effect, and restrictions across the EU – governments, manufacturers and researchers are facing a common order to eliminate PFA and harmful plastics from food ingredients.
But the central question remains: what alternatives to them?
Go-ECO is a groundbreaking graphene oxide-based solution created in collaboration with Chang Robotics and Northwestern University, which could ultimately provide a practical solution.
Challenge: Eliminate PFA without sacrificing performance
Plastic and PFA were not adopted by chance. They are effective and low-cost materials that provide unparalleled barrier performance that keeps food safe by repelling moisture, oil and gas. It also increases durability and shelf life, both of which are important in the global food supply chain.
However, their properties make it nearly impossible to recycle and become toxic over time. As environmental regulations become more stringent, demand for the next alternative is growing.
Food Safe; Biodegradable or recyclable. Cost-effective; Commercially scalable. And it’s functional.
To date, most alternatives are short. Biopolymers are compostable, but are often expensive and require additional lamination to increase durability. Other coatings do not have the same level of water or oil resistance. Or reduce the strength of the package.
Breakthrough: The power of Go-ECO and graphene oxide
Go-ECO™ is the first solution to use graphene oxide (GO) as a multifunctional, environmentally friendly barrier. Developed by Northwestern University scientists, Professor Songbin Nu Ngwen and Timothy Wei said that Go-ECO, commercialized through Chang Robotics, represents a major advance in materials science.
What’s the difference?
Graphene oxide is a carbon-based nanomaterial made from atomic sheets in a hexagonal matrix, concentrated with oxygen and hydroxyl ions. Peeling into individual sheets will add a significant increase in strength while bonding tightly to the paper fibers and creating a high performance barrier to liquids, oils and gases.
Results: Reinforced non-toxic paper, while recyclable, compostable and biodegradable packages while blocking water, oil and gas.
Lab-validated performance: Out-performance of PFA and plastic coatings
The effectiveness of Go-ECO is not theoretical. It is independently verified through rigorous testing.
In early 2025, researchers at the Western Michigan University paper pilot plant conducted two major studies comparing GO-ECO with commercial barrier coatings using industrial standard metrics. The key findings are as follows:
Excellent Water Resistance: GO-ECO treated paper absorbs 40% less water than traditional water treatment paper. Extended Oil Repellency: Go-ECO treated sheets withstand oil absorption very long and slowed penetration well beyond industry alternatives. Strong Package: GO-ECO increases tensile strength by 27% and strength by 56%, making the package more secure, but also more durable and reliable. Zero waste and full integration: Almost 100% of GO bonds to pulp fibers, ensuring minimal spills and preventing food contamination. Unlike PFAS coatings that can leach or flake, Go-ECO becomes an integral part of the paper matrix itself.
These results confirm the ability of Go-ECO to exceed PFA performance without any impact on health or environmental factors.
Real-world momentum: Industry pilots and commercial verification
Although it is still in the early stages of commercialization, Go-ECO has already achieved significant market traction.
As of July 2025:
Over 15 organizations have signed mutual NDAs on GO-ECO. Over 10 companies are actively testing Go-ECO samples. The three companies are preparing a pilot scale production trial set from late July to early August 2025.
Partners include key players in molded textile packaging, quick service restaurant packages, food grade paperboard and sustainable tableware. These companies are currently evaluating Go-ECO for their extensive integration into their existing supply chains and product lines.
Go-ECO combines scientific reliability with practical industry use, bridging the gap between laboratory outcomes and real-world developments.
Mission-driven innovation
At the heart of Go-ECO’s development is the desire to adapt materials science to public health.
“PFA is absorbed into our bodies and does not deteriorate easily, so there is a risk of cumulative toxicity. That’s why it’s called an “eternal chemical.” ”
Not only is Go-ECO not only scientifically sound, but also provides ethically necessary alternatives, allowing industries to protect consumers without compromising sustainability.
Conclusion: Here’s the future of food safe packages
The need for a PFAS-free package is no longer an environmental goal, but rather a regulatory requirement, public health priorities, and global market demand.
Go-ECO offers a rare combination of performance, scalability, affordability and safety. Verified results show increased commercial traction and strong IP protection make Go-ECO stand out as one of the most viable next-generation solutions for PFAS-free packaging.
Whether you’re a packaging supplier, food brand, retailer, or regulator, the opportunity is now to lead.
To learn more about partnership opportunities or explore them, visit go-eco.solutions.
This article will also be featured in the 23rd edition of Quarterly Publication.
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