This project, Bio-based Packaging for Fresh Food (BIOFRESHPAK) is focused on developing packaging materials that will be biodegradable and recyclable and will A) reduce wastage by improving the storage stability and shelf life of food during transit between the producer and the urban consumer, B) reduce the level of adulteration via sealable and tamper-evident features, C)reduce urban solid waste from packaging going to landfill, and D) improve health and well being of the population by improved retention of nutritional quality and reducing risk of spoilage in fruit and vegetables. To achieve these objectives, the project will develop innovative bio-based hybrid polymer packaging films with selective humidity and permeability control and improved storage-life performance with enhanced environmental characteristics. The packaging systems will be based on the incorporation and compatibilisation of presently under used agri-waste (tapioca starch from cassava processing waste) at low costs into conventional and other bio-based polymers. The treatment of the agri-waste (wet stored cassava starch and waste water) will contribute to minimising significant cassava waste.