Discover GO-Eco: The Revolutionary Graphene Oxide Solution for PFAS-Free Food Packaging

For years, plastic and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) coatings have protected our food. These materials keep out moisture, oil, and air. However, they’re facing serious environmental concerns. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily and can accumulate in our bodies. Studies link them to health issues like cancer and infertility.

With new regulations coming into play, including those from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the EU, there’s a pressing need to find safer alternatives for food packaging.

But what can replace these materials?

A promising solution is GO-Eco, a graphene-oxide-based innovative product co-developed by Chang Robotics and Northwestern University.

Removing PFAS without losing effectiveness is no easy task. Plastic and PFAS are popular due to their affordability and strong protective qualities. They keep food fresh and safe, extending its shelf life, which is essential for global supply chains.

Yet, as regulations tighten, the demand for alternatives grows. These solutions need to be:

• Food-safe
• Biodegradable or recyclable
• Cost-effective
• Commercially scalable
• As functional as traditional materials

Unfortunately, few alternatives meet all these criteria. For instance, while biopolymers are compostable, they tend to be pricey and often require extra lamination for durability. Other solutions may lack needed oil or water resistance.

Here’s where GO-Eco shines. This innovative solution uses graphene oxide, a carbon-based nanomaterial, as a protective barrier. It was developed by Northwestern University scientists and is being commercialized through Chang Robotics.

Graphene oxide consists of thin sheets arranged in a hexagonal pattern, rich in oxygen and hydroxyl ions. Once processed into separate sheets, it bonds tightly with paper fibers. This gives the paper strong protection against liquids and gases while enhancing its strength.

The benefits? A strong, non-toxic paper that blocks moisture and oil, yet remains recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable.

Lab tests confirm GO-Eco’s effectiveness. In early 2025, researchers at Western Michigan University conducted studies comparing GO-Eco to traditional barrier coatings. They found:

• Superior water resistance: GO-Eco-treated paper absorbed 40% less water than conventional products.
• Long-lasting oil repellency: GO-Eco sheets resisted oil absorption longer than their competitors.
• Enhanced strength: GO-Eco improved the paper’s tensile strength by 27% and burst strength by 56%.
• Minimal waste and contamination risk: Nearly 100% of GO binds to paper fibers, reducing environmental impact.

These results illustrate that GO-Eco can match, even surpass, PFAS in performance without harmful effects.

The journey to market is underway, with GO-Eco gaining traction in various industries. By July 2025:

• Over 15 organizations have signed agreements with GO-Eco.
• More than 10 firms are actively testing GO-Eco samples.
• Three companies are planning pilot-scale production trials for later this year.

GO-Eco is seen as a bridge between science and real-world application, offering a practical solution for sustainable packaging.

This innovation isn’t just about science; it’s about public health. Dr. Philip Kuriakose, a hematologist and oncologist, emphasizes the risks associated with PFAS, stating that they can lead to cumulative toxicity over time. GO-Eco emerges not only as a safe alternative but also as an ethical choice for industries aiming to protect consumers.

The need for PFAS-free packaging is urgent. It’s not just about the environment; it’s a matter of public health and regulatory compliance. GO-Eco combines effectiveness, scalability, affordability, and safety. With verified performance and growing commercial interest, GO-Eco is poised to revolutionize food-safe packaging.