Dive Brief:
- Ford and Heinz have entered a research partnership to create auto parts from the peels, skins, and seeds left behind in ketchup manufacturing.
- The companies have given the project a tagline: “You Say Tomato; We Say Tom-Auto."
- The partnership comes as Ford searches for ways to replace petroleum-based plastics with renewable bioplastics.
Dive Insight:
This idea isn't a kooky as it might sound. Ford already uses bioplastics -- including soy foam seat cushions and composite materials that contain coconuts.
In addition, both Ford and rival BMW uses kenaf fibers in its vehicles.
In fact, much of the food industry views bioplastics with considerable interest. Coca-Cola is one of the industry leaders driving research and development.