Scientists have created cookies from plastic

**Scientists have made cookies from recycled plastic**

Researchers at Southern Illinois University have managed to create cookies from recycled plastic. The Guardian reported this.

This unusual invention, funded by NASA, is primarily intended for long-term space missions.

The researchers used an element contained in plastic bottles to break it down into carbon-rich molecules. Then, using specially modified yeast, these molecules were converted into proteins, fats and other nutrients. The resulting mass was molded into cookies using a 3D printer.

The scientists themselves have not yet tasted these cookies, as this requires special permission. Nevertheless, they note that the smell of the cookies is already highly appreciated. Currently, one kilogram of such cookies costs about $ 60, but in the future they are planned to be cheaper.

This technology can be an effective way to produce food not only in space, but also, according to scientists, in the following places:

* on submarines;

* in natural disaster areas;

* in other emergency situations.

In the future, this technology can help solve two global problems at once - plastic waste recycling and food shortages.

According to the report, by 2050, the world's demand for food is expected to increase from 35 to 56 percent. In the future, about 30 percent of the world's population may be at risk of hunger.