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Potentials of Utilizing Zea mays (Corn) Husk as Replacement Resources

for the Production of Paper for Food Packaging

Carabuena, Jhun Clyde, De Roxas, Mailynn, Gatmaitan, Jeaniscia

Geronimo, Jasmine, Gulapa, Jose Miguel, Jacob, Kate

Juan, John Andrei, Matavia, Carl, Olivares, Drake

Ranes, Aaron, Santiago, Jan Rei, Sta. Ana, Angelo

Basic Education Department, La Consolacion University Philippines

Res 3: Work Immersion/ Capstone Project

Mr. Ernesto Manlapig Jr.

May 19, 2023

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ABSTRACT

Corn husks are made from the second-largest crop in the world, corn. Corn husks have

been carefully studied for the possibility of producing fiber due to their low cost and

widespread availability. Zea mays (corn) husks could be used in this study to investigate

the viability of employing them as a sustainable replacement for paper in food packaging.

The research study could provide significant insights into the possibilities of using corn

husks as an alternative material for making paper-based food packaging through using an

experimental research approach. The economic feasibility of corn husk paper, which

comprises research design, equipment, and data collection procedures, is used to

determine if it is economical to make paper from corn husks and will be evaluated

utilizing an experimental study methodology. The corn husk as paper for food packaging

had a thickness of 1.5mm, the paper takes 4.5kg of weight for it to break and got a result

of 206.25% from the water absorption test. Compared to ordinary food packaging, corn

husk paper for food packaging absorbs more water but has a better tensile strength. Corn

husk can be used as a viable alternative source for making paper for food packaging.

Corn husk paper for food packaging is better suited for foods that are dried or frozen.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTERS PAGE

Title Page…………………………………………………………………………………………….1

Abstract………………………………………………………………………………………………2

Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………………………3

Acknowledgements………………………………………………………………………………….5

CHAPTER 1………………………………………………………………………………………..6

Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………….6

Related Theory………………………………………………………………………………………8

Conceptual Framework……………………………………………………………………………9

Statement of the Problem…………………………………………………………………………10

Hypothesis of the study…………………………………………………………………………...11

Scope of the Study…………………………………………………………………………..11

Significance of the study………………………………………………………………………….11

Definition of Terms………………………………………………………………………………..12

CHAPTER 2………………………………………………………………………………………14

Research Methodology…………………………………………………………………………..14

Research Design………………………………………………………………………………….15

Materials and Procedures………………………………………………………………………..16

Instrumentation……………………………………………………………………………………18

Data Gathering……………………………………………………………………………………19

Ethical Considerations…………………………………………………………………………...19
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CHAPTER 3………………………………………………………………………………………21

CHAPTER 4………………………………………………………………………………………33

Summary……………………………………………………………………………………………33

Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………………35

Recommendations…………………………………………………………………………………36

References………………………………………………………………………………………….38

Appendices…………………………………………………………………………………………43
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Prior to anything else, we want to thank and appreciate God for his wisdom and

blessings, which have enabled us to finish and complete our research. We are also very

appreciative of the Lord Almighty's direction as we conducted this study.

As researchers, we would also like to convey our sincere gratitude to Sir Ernesto

Manlapig Jr., our mentor teacher, for his leadership and unceasing support of us, his pupils. We

also want to say thank you for inspiring us and helping us to recognize each accomplishment

during our senior high years. Being his student is a fantastic privilege for us since we get to

experience his parental support and constant direction for us.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the panelists for allowing us the

chance to share this study with you and for being the driving force behind our realization of the

study's goal. We are genuinely impressed by their knowledge as our panelists as researchers. We

appreciate your advice and support in helping us expand our understanding of this subject.

We gratefully thank each and every one of our group members for their contributions to

the development of this study as well as their responsibility, cooperation, and tenacity in seeing it

through to completion. We sincerely appreciate your patience as we worked through each

challenge in order to finish this study's chapters.

Again, thank you very much to everyone who contributed to our successful research and

study. May the Lord the Almighty bestow blessings and wisdom onto each of you. We also

express gratitude to La Consolacion University of the Philippines, which we adore.

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Chapter 1

The Problem and its Related Literature

Introduction

Zea mays (Corn) husk is a protective layer that covers the outside of a corn ear

(Collins English Dictionary, 2023). The second-largest crop in the world, corn, is used to

make corn husks. As a result of their low cost and wide availability, the idea of making

fiber from corn husks has been closely examined. It has been demonstrated that corn husk

has a lot of potential as a material with several uses (Chari, 2022). As the second-most

significant crop in the Philippines after rice, corn husk is quite abundant and available in

the country. Corn can be cooked in a variety of ways, including by boiling, grilling, or

adding it to other recipes. The husks and stalks, however, are thrown away once the corn

has been harvested from the fields and are regarded as agricultural waste that possesses

no recognized economic potential (Department of Agrarian Reform, 2021; Tumolva et

al., 2016). In terms of its chemical composition, corn husk had 34–41% hemicellulose,

31-39% cellulose, 2–14% lignin, 3–7% ash, 10–18% extractives, and components that

were water-soluble (Mendes et al., 2014).

The threat of global warming and other environmental problems brought on by

pollution and other waste products are widespread in today's world. In the Philippines,

waste paper and food waste are two of the materials that are frequently disposed of

(Carado et al., 2019). Paper is a thin material sheet used for effective written

communication and the dissemination of information (Britt, 2020). Paper is traditionally

created from wood, which depends on forest resources. As a result, to meet the demand
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for wood fiber, huge areas of rainforest are cut down every year (Ramdhonee & Jeetah,

2017). Paper plays a significant role in our lives, given its numerous advantages.

Unfortunately, it is now one of the difficulties that we need to address since it increases

the quantity of waste that is produced in our nation. In order to prevent flooding in

today's world of escalating natural disasters, trees must be protected. Hence, rather than

chopping down trees to make paper, it is necessary to look for and build a sensible and

affordable alternative supply of paper (Cruz et al., 2022).

Food packaging includes the methods, supplies, and technologies used to package

food products. There are many reasons why food is packaged, including to increase shelf

life (Lightstead, 2022). A food product must be enclosed to prevent tampering or

contamination from physical, chemical, or biological sources (Elsevier eBooks, 2019).

Due to its eco-friendly popularity, paper and paperboard-based materials are one of the

oldest and most widely used packaging forms for food goods such as milk and

milk-based products, beverages, dry powders, confectionery, bakery products, etc.

(Deshwal, 2019). In light of the significant quantity of waste it produces and the

potentially harmful substances it contains, food packaging is a developing global

concern. As a packaging material, paper and cardboard are advantageous because they

are affordable, can be created from recycled paper-pulp, are more sustainable, and, if not

coated with anything that stops recycling, may be recycled (FoodPrint, 2021).

This study aims to investigate the possibilities of utilizing corn husks as an

alternative source for the production of paper for food packaging. With growing

environmental awareness, researchers made the decision to develop reusable waste

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materials for food packaging production in an attempt to decrease environmental waste

and limit the need to cut down trees. Today's generation has an increasing number of

enterprises; therefore, finding an alternate source for food packaging plays an important

role for both economic and environmental reasons. This will help a lot of business

owners, especially those in the food industry, save money since they won't need to buy

packaging, and it will also be good for the environment because the researchers will be

utilizing eco-friendly materials. Furthermore, this study will encourage business owners

to produce their own food packaging rather than dispose of corn husks and used paper.

Related Theory

Theory of Life Cycle Assessment

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is another relevant theory when considering the use

of cornhusks for paper food packaging. By employing LCA, manufacturers can evaluate

the environmental impact of the entire lifecycle of the paper packaging, from the sourcing

of raw materials to its disposal. This can help identify areas where the environmental

impact can be minimized, such as reducing energy use or waste generation during

production (Muralikrishna & Manickam, 2017). By understanding the environmental

impact of using cornhusks as a material for paper production, manufacturers can make

informed decisions about how to create paper food packaging that is both sustainable and

cost-effective. Employing the principles of LCA can also help manufacturers comply

with regulations and meet sustainability goals, while also appealing to consumers who
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are increasingly environmentally conscious. Ultimately, using LCA in the design and

production of paper food packaging can help reduce the environmental impact of the

packaging and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Conceptual Framework

The Conceptual Framework of the study shown in the above stated figure

indicates all the variables needed in conducting the research as well as the possible

outcome and contribution of this study to our community. The researchers adapted the

Input Process Output (IPO) model wherein;

The Input consists of the variables or factors that the researchers will be

manipulating to test their effect on the outcomes, which is the Zea Mays (Corn) Husk.

The Process involves all the methods used to conduct the experiment. This

includes the use of True Experimental research design to test the viability and different
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instrumentations like Observational Method, Thickness Test, Tensile Strength Test and

Water Absorption Test.

The Output comprises all the results or possible outcomes of the study.

Statement of the Problem

This study entitled as Potentials of Utilizing Zea mays (Corn) Husk as

Replacement Resources for the Production of Paper for Food Packaging aims to answer

the following questions:

1. What would be the quality of paper food packaging made from corn husk in

terms of:

1.1. Thickness

1.2. Tensile Strength

1.3. Water Absorption

2. How would the paper food packaging made from corn husk be compared to

ordinary paper food packaging in terms of:

2.1. Thickness

2.2. Tensile Strength

2.3. Water Absorption

3. What would be the changes if paper made from corn was used as packaging for

food?
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Hypothesis of the Study

H0: Utilizing Zea mays (corn) husk as replacement resources for the production of paper

for food packaging is not feasible.

H1: Utilizing Zea mays (corn) husk as replacement resources for the production of paper

for food packaging is feasible.

Scope of the Study

The purpose of this study is to look into the viability of using corn husks as an

alternative source for making paper for food packaging. This study only covers the

potential of using corn husk as a source of paper for food packaging compared to

ordinary paper for food packaging.

This study was conducted at La Consolacion University Philippines located at

Valenzuela St., Capitol View Park Subdivision, Bulihan, City of Malolos 3000

Philippines and at the house of one of the researchers. The study was conducted during

the S.Y. 2022-2023. The actual experiment started in May 2023.

Significance of The Study

According to the researchers in this study, the following demographic groups are

expected to get advantages from reading this paper:

Entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs may use this study as a reference for the creation of their

new business. They may create a business that is similar to the contents of this study.

Resulting to a business that is more leaned to eco-friendly creation of paper for food
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packaging. Other businesses that are related to paper for food packaging production, may

also use this study to find an alternative source for paper for food packaging production.

Food Companies. Undoubtedly, big food companies consume a lot of paper for the

packaging of their products. By introducing our product to their service, the companies

may help alleviate the amount of waste as well as convey an eco-friendly image to their

company.

Community. As a community, it is their responsibility to protect the environment and

preserve its natural resources. This can be achieved by recycling just like using corn husk

as a source for paper for food packaging. With this, the community will be able to help

the environment.

Environment. Corn husks are an example of waste that can be recycled. By

implementing corn husks as a source for the production of paper for food packaging, the

amount of waste occupied by corn husks will be lessened and quite possibly be removed.

Future Researchers. Future researchers attempting to examine subjects comparable to

those covered in this study may use this work as a guide.

Definition of Terms

Corn Husk - “Corn husks are the protective leaves the plant forms to cover growing

corn. They have a distinctive texture.” (Corn Husk Weaving, n.d.)

Fiber - “a slender and greatly elongated natural or synthetic filament (as of wool, cotton,

asbestos, gold, glass, or rayon) typically capable of being spun into yarn.” (“Definition of

Fiber,” 2023)
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Agricultural Waste - Agricultural Waste is unwanted or unsalable materials produced

entirely from agricultural operations directly related to the growing of crops or raising of

animals for the primary purpose of making a profit or for a livelihood. (Agricultural

Waste, n.d.)
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Chapter 2: Research Methodology

Research Method

This study aims to explore the potential of using Zea mays (corn) husks as a

sustainable alternative material for producing paper-based food packaging. The objective

is to establish a methodology to evaluate the feasibility of producing paper from corn

husks, including research design, instrumentation, and data collection procedures. An

experimental research design will be employed to assess the viability of the paper

produced from corn husks.

A collection of processes known as an experimental research design is used to

carry out scientific studies by adjusting two sets of variables. While the second set varies

to measure differences, the first set stays the same to create cause-and-effect relationships

and guarantee accurate and dependable results (Sirisilla, 2023).

By using an experimental research design, this study can provide valuable insights

into the potential of using corn husks as a substitute material for creating paper-based

food packaging. This research may contribute to the development of environmentally

friendly practices by reducing the need for using wood fibers in creating paper.

Additionally, it may lead to the exploration and development of alternative materials for

paper-based food packaging, thereby promoting sustainability and reducing the carbon

footprint.
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Research Design

Due to the nature of the study the researchers will use a true experimental

research design. A true experiment should be able to prove a cause-and-effect

relationship with every variable but the one being investigated is controlled (Banaszak &

Williams, 2022). Specifically, the researchers will use an experimental and control group

to compare and evaluate the results of the study

The experimental group will consist of paper food packaging made from corn

husks, while the control group will consist of regular paper-based food packaging. By

doing so, the researchers can test the paper food packaging's texture, thickness, tensile

strength, and water absorption, to name a few. These tests are important to ensure that the

paper food packaging made from corn husks is a viable substitute for regular paper-based

food packaging. The results of these tests will be used to evaluate the feasibility of

producing paper from corn husks and to determine if it is a sustainable alternative

material for creating paper-based food packaging. Ultimately, this study aims to

contribute to the development of environmentally friendly practices by reducing the need

for using wood fibers in creating paper and exploring alternative materials for

paper-based food packaging, promoting sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint.

The most accurate kind of experimental study is considered to be one that

involves true experiments. A true experiment should be able to prove a cause-and-effect

relationship with every variable but the one being investigated is controlled (Banaszak &

Williams, 2022). Specifically, the researchers will employ an experimental and control

group to compare and evaluate the results of the study.

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Materials:

The following materials and procedures were adapted by the researchers from the

process outlined by Asngad et al. (2021). In order to suit the amount that they are aiming

to manufacture, the researchers made some adjustments to the materials and procedures.

Ingredients Materials

Corn Husk Fibers (500g) blender

Caustic Soda or Sodium Hydroxide paper making mold/deckle

Water (5L) plastic basin

starch damp cloth/sponge

caustic soda or sodium hydroxide scissor/knife

Procedure:

Figure 1. Clean and soak the
corn husk in water separately
for 24 hours.
Figure 2. After 24 hours, drain
the water from the corn husk
transfer them to separate pots.
Figure 3. Add 2 cups of
water to each pot and add
1 teaspoon of sodium
hydroxide to the pulp
mixture then boil the corn
husk for 30 minutes.

Figure 4. Put the corn husk in a
into
blender with it having more
water than the corn husk.
Figure 7. Pour the pulp in a
large basin and add
cornstarch.
Figure 5. Blend the corn husk
until it forms a pulp.
Figure 8. Place the deckle and
mold into the mixture and
slowly lift it up, allowing the
water to drain through the
mesh screen.
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Figure 6. Pour the pulp
a strainer and let it
sit for a few minutes
Remove any
excess water from the
strainer
Figure 9. Leave the deckle
and mold on a drying rack
or dry it with sponge until
enough water is drained
from the mixture, leaving
behind the paper.
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Figure 10. Let it dry for 24-48 Figure 11. Once dry, cut it into
hours. the shape of a food packaging.

Instrumentation

1. Observational Method - This method entails watching and analyzing the subjects

spontaneous behavior in a natural setting. Simply said, the researcher takes note

of what they observe in any way they can (Mcleod, 2023).

2. Thickness Test - A caliper can be used to gauge the thickness of paper. Between

the caliper's jaws is placed a piece of paper or paperboard. After that, the jaws are

compressed and the space between them is measured (Industrial Physics, 2022).

3. Tensile Strength Test - It is used to determine a material's strength and the

maximum strain that it can withstand before breaking. Tensile tests are carried out

to determine how a material will react to specific circumstances or stresses

(Rheinland, n.d).

4. Water Absorption Test- To remove moisture, a sample was heated for 15 minutes

in the microwave. An electronic weighing scale was used to determine its dry
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weight. The sample was also thoroughly soaked in water before being submerged.

After gently pressing the water out, the object's weight when wet was calculated.

Its water absorption was calculated using the formula provided by Intertek (n.d.):

Percent Water Absorption = [(Wet Weight - Dry Weight)/Dry Weight] x 100%.

(Mira et al., 2020)

Data Gathering Procedure

As we move forward on this research, the researchers started to conduct

experimentations for this study. The researchers conducted six (6) trials within a month

until they reached the desired result of the product. The researchers go straight to testing

of food packaging which was also observed by a professional MedTech personnel at

BMC.

After the information is gathered, the researchers proceed to analyzation and

interpretation of data. Since the majority of the testing is observational, the researchers

were tasked to tally data and to have the comparison between the ordinary food

packaging and Paper Food Packaging with Corn Husk.

Ethical Considerations

The study on putting food in corn husk packaging had to take ethical factors into

account, such as assessing food security, cutting waste, ensuring health and safety, and

sustainability. In order to avoid any negative effects, it is imperative to evaluate the

potential influence on food availability and security. Also, to protect consumers, it is

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critical to guarantee the hygienic and safety of the food packaging materials. Finally, to

conduct research in a responsible and ethical manner, open dialogue, transparency, and

consider the environmental effects of employing corn husk as food packaging.

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Chapter 3: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data

Table 1. Viability of Corn Husk-Based Paper as Sustainable Food Packaging

The table shows the food was observed to be in paper food packaging made from corn
husks — Observational Analysis.

Paper Food Packaging

Using Corn Husks

Time in Minutes Description

5 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

10 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

15 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

20 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

25 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

30 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

35 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

40 minutes no changes in taste absorbing the oil

45 minutes no changes in taste absorbed the oil

50 minutes no changes in taste absorbed the oil

55 minutes no changes in taste absorbed the oil

60 minutes no changes in taste absorbed the oil

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We conducted an observational analysis to determine if the flavor of food changed

significantly when it was packaged in corn husk paper. The taste profile of the corn husk

packaging was neutral, enabling the genuine flavors of the food to stand out. This is

especially crucial for delicate and subtle meals, where any packaging interference might

ruin the whole flavor experience. We found that the natural flavors and aromas of the

meal were successfully retained by the corn husk packaging, improving the dining

experience for users

One interesting finding, though, was how well the corn husk packaging absorbed

extra oil from fried or oily items. When dishes like frozen food were packaged in corn

husks, we discovered that the packing efficiently absorbed the oil, making consuming the

item less greasy and more enjoyable. The corn husk packaging's ability to absorb oil may
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be advantageous for people who are concerned about their intake of oil or who want a

healthier diet. Additionally, by lowering moisture and potential rancidity and prolonging

the shelf life of the packaged goods, oil absorption by the packaging may improve food

preservation. Overall, our observational analysis shows the potential of corn husk

packaging as a functional, sustainable alternative that preserves food flavor while

providing other advantages like oil absorption.

Figure 12. Quality of Paper Food Packaging Produced in Terms of Thickness

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The findings of our study showed that paper food packaging created from corn

husks had a thickness of approximately 1.5mm. It turned out that this thickness was

satisfactory for offering adequate structural integrity and durability to successfully protect

food products during storage and transportation. In addition, the 1.5mm thickness

achieved a balance between assuring product safety and reducing wasteful material use.

Caliper was used for gauging the thickness of paper food packaging. Due to the

accuracy and consistency of the measurements made possible by this precision

instrument, the packing material's quality and uniformity are assured. The thickness of

the paper-based food packaging is measured by researchers using calipers, allowing them

to adhere to strict specifications and standards. With the aid of the caliper measurement,

it is possible to assess the packaging's structural stability and ensure that the contents are

adequately protected.
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Table 2. Quality of Paper Food Packaging Produced in Terms of Tensile Strength

The table illustrates the results of the Tensile Strength Test — Observational Method,
which was carried out in order to figure out how much weight the paper can withstand
before breaking.

Paper Food Packaging

Using Corn Husks

Weight Description

500 grams Stayed intact

1 kilograms Stayed intact

1.5 kilograms Stayed intact

2.0 kilograms Stayed intact

2.5 kilograms Stayed intact

3.0 kilograms Stayed intact

3.5 kilograms Stayed intact

4.0 kilograms Stayed intact

4.5 kilograms Damaged

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Corn husk food packaging has a remarkable tear strength, making it a dependable and

durable choice for holding a variety of goods. This packing material makes sure that

goods are transported and stored safely because it can support about 4.0 kg of weight

before tearing. Corn husk packaging's increased tear resistance improves its durability,

lowering the possibility of spillage or damage during handling and delivery.

When conducting tensile strength testing, observational analysis is a useful

approach used by the researchers. In order to determine a material's strength and

durability, this method entails carefully observing and examining the behavior of a

material under tension. The object being examined is tested by being applied a regulated

force up to the point of failure. Researchers learned important details about the properties

of the sample's tensile strength by constantly monitoring it throughout this procedure.

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Figure 13. Quality of Paper Food Packaging Produced in Terms of Water

Absorption

The figure above demonstrates that the paper food packaging constructed from

corn husks acquired a value of 206.25% for water absorption. The percentage of the

paper food packaging made from corn husks that was above 100% suggests that it

absorbed a lot of water and had a highwater absorption quality. This trait is a problem

since it weakens packaging, particularly when it is exposed to humid or liquids. Due to

the substance's propensity to absorb water, exposure to moisture may damage the

material's structural integrity and increase the risk of tearing or breaking. This

disadvantage should be considered when using corn husk paper to package food,

especially for items that need to be well protected or have a long shelf life.
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A water absorption test is an important step in determining if paper is suitable for

food packaging. This test offers essential details about how well the material can

withstand water infiltration and keep its structural integrity when exposed to moisture.

The paper's capacity to shield food goods from moisture and potential deterioration is

determined by the water absorption test. It is especially important for packaging materials

that could come into contact with liquids or are more likely to experience condensation or

excessive humidity.
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Figure 14. Difference between Paper Food Packaging made from Corn Husks and

Ordinary Paper Food Packaging in Terms of Thickness

The figure above demonstrates the average thickness of paper food packaging

created from corn husks, which is 1.5mm. In comparison to ordinary food packaging,

which is normally 1.1mm thick, it offers a slightly thicker barrier. Corn husk packaging

may still efficiently protect and preserve food goods as a result of the increased thickness,

which creates a solid barrier against external elements.

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Table 3. Difference between Paper Food Packaging made from Corn Husks and
Ordinary Paper Food Packaging in Terms of Tensile Strength

Paper Food Packaging Ordinary Paper

Using Corn Husks Food Packaging

Weight Description Description

500 grams Stayed intact Stayed intact

1 kilograms Stayed intact Stayed intact

1.5 kilograms Stayed intact Stayed intact

2.0 kilograms Stayed intact Damaged

2.5 kilograms Stayed intact Damaged

3.0 kilograms Stayed intact Damaged

3.5 kilograms Stayed intact Damaged

4.0 kilograms Stayed intact Damaged

4.5 kilograms Damaged Damaged

In accordance with the table, paper food packaging constructed from corn husks

can hold 4.0 kilograms. In contrast, regular paper food packaging can hold 1.5 kilograms.

Comparing food packaging manufactured from standard materials to that constructed

from corn husks, a clear benefit can be seen in terms of strength. The 2.0 kilograms

breaking point of ordinary packaging materials is exceeded by the 4.5 kilograms breaking
 31

strength of corn husk paper. With its increased strength, corn husk-based food packaging

offers dependable protection for a variety of food products, ensuring their security during

storage and transportation. Additionally, the strength of corn husk packing adds to its

sustainability. It lowers the possibility of food waste caused by damaged packaging by

providing strong protection.

Figure 15. Difference between Paper Food Packaging made from Corn Husks and

Ordinary Paper Food Packaging in Terms of Water Absorption

The figure above demonstrates that the paper food packaging constructed from

corn husks acquired a value of 206.25% for water absorption. However, the water

absorption value for ordinary paper food packaging was 10%. The percentage of the

paper food packaging made from corn husks that was above 100% suggests that it

absorbed a lot of water and had a high water absorption quality. Due to the substance's

propensity to absorb water, exposure to moisture may damage the material's structural
 32

integrity and increase the risk of tearing or breaking. This disadvantage should be

considered when using corn husk paper to package food, especially for items that need to

be well protected or have a long shelf life.

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Chapter 4: Result, Conclusion and Recommendation

Summary

This study called “Potentials of Utilizing Zea mays (Corn) Husk as Replacement

Resources for the Production of Paper for Food Packaging” was conducted with the

intention of determining whether corn husk can be used as an alternative source for the

production of paper for food packaging. The researchers used a true experimental

research design with the regular paper-based food packaging as the controlled group and

the paper food packaging made from corn husks as the experimental group. Thickness

test, Tensile Strength Test, and Water Absorption Test were used to gather necessary data.

The study was conducted during the S.Y. 2022-2023, while the actual experiment started

in April 2023.

The data gathered from the survey were analyzed and the conclusions were made

to correspond to the questions of the statement of the study.

Subproblem 1.1. What would be the quality of corn husk as paper for food packaging in

terms of Thickness?

1. The corn husk as paper for food packaging had a thickness of 1.5mm

Subproblem 1.2. What would be the quality of corn husk as paper for food packaging in

terms of Tensile Strength?

1. It took 4.5kg of weight for the corn husk as paper for food packaging to break

Subproblem 1.3. What would be the quality of corn husk as paper for food packaging in

terms of Water Absorption?

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1. The corn husk as paper for food packaging got a result of 206.25% from the water

absorption test

Subproblem 2.1. How would the paper food packaging made from corn husk be

compared to ordinary paper food packaging in terms of Thickness?

1. The corn husk as paper for food packaging had a thickness of 1.5mm

2. The ordinary paper for food packaging had a thickness of 1.1mm

Subproblem 2.2. How would the paper food packaging made from corn husk be

compared to ordinary paper food packaging in terms of Tensile Strength?

1. It took 4.5kg of weight for the corn husk as paper for food packaging to break

2. It took 2kg of weight for the ordinary paper for food packaging to break

Subproblem 2.3. How would the paper food packaging made from corn husk be

compared to ordinary paper food packaging in terms of Water Absorption?

1. The corn husk as paper for food packaging got a result of 206.25% from the water

absorption test

2. The ordinary paper for food packaging got a result of 10% from the water

absorption test.

Problem 3. What would be the changes if paper made from corn was used as packaging

for food?

1. 5 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

2. 10 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

3. 15 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

4. 20 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.
 35

5. 25 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

6. 30 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

7. 35 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

8. 40 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper is absorbing the oil.

9. 45 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper absorbs the oil.

10. 50 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper absorbs the oil.

11. 55 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper absorbs the oil.

12. 60 minutes There are no changes in taste. The paper absorbs the oil.

CONCLUSIONS

1. Based on the overall data that is gathered, the use of corn husk is indeed a benefit to

people who commonly use food packaging as a container, not only can it withstand a

heavier mass it is also eco-friendly as the materials made from the container are natural

and can be recycled for other purposes. Furthermore, it is more durable than the common

food packaging granting a higher chance for the food to be secured and protected from

external threats.

2. The results of corn husk used as paper packaging is 1.5mm thick allowing a thicker

barrier for moisture of the food while the tensile strength can carry over 4.0kg of mass

indicating that it can handle numerous amount of food, in terms of water absorption the

test lasted for a maximum of 60 mins having no change in terms of the taste as it absorbs
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the oil, in conclusion the use of corn husk as food packaging is very effective and useful

when storing food.

3. The use of corn husks as food packaging contrasted to normal packaging offered a

much better advantage in terms of carrying capacity, the normal food packaging has a

maximum capacity of 2.0kg of weight compared to the corn husks which has a maximum

of 4.0kg furthermore it is also .4mm thicker allowing a much higher protection and

endurance for the food and container. While it contains the similar result as the water

absorption the carrying capacity and thicker barrier will offer a positive benefit upon

storing food.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. The use of corn husk as an alternative source for paper for food packaging is suggested

to be implemented as studies suggest that it can be a healthier alternative and it helps the

environment by lessening the amount of agricultural waste that corn husks occupy.

2. Further study and engagement with business associates are encouraged concerning

how the manufacturing procedure should be optimized, food safety standards should be

upheld, and any possible difficulties with production scaling should be addressed.

3. Water absorption creates a problem for food packaging constructed from corn husk

since it has a tendency to weaken the packaging, particularly when exposed to moisture

or liquids. This needs to be taken into consideration by producers, who then need to come

up with creative ways to increase the water resistance of corn husk paper packaging

without sacrificing its sustainability.

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4. Future researchers are urged to make sure to be conscious of their own biases

throughout the analysis process in order to achieve fair data analysis. They must

deliberately put aside their personal biases and assumptions in order to approach the

evidence honestly.
 38

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APPENDIX

Curriculum Vitae
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