DisSolves, a North Carolina-based start-up, has introduced an innovative, sustainable alternative to traditional polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) dissolvable pods. Aimed at replacing single-use plastic packaging often found in household products, their solution is biodegradable, plastic-free, and water-soluble, offering a practical step toward more sustainable packaging systems.

A Biobased Alternative
Unlike conventional dissolvable pods, which are commonly made from PVA — a petroleum-derived plastic that can fragment into microplastics — DisSolves’ material is composed entirely of plant-based ingredients. The material fully dissolves in water, leaving no residue or harmful by-products, addressing critical concerns about plastic pollution in both natural and urban environments.

This innovation has significant implications for packaging designers and product designers working toward circular solutions. It allows brands to maintain the convenience of dissolvable formats, such as dishwasher or laundry pods, while reducing environmental impact. Furthermore, it opens up new opportunities in industries like food and beverage, where dissolvable packaging could eliminate the need for secondary plastics.

Circularity in Design
One of the key use cases highlighted by DisSolves involves coffee shop single-use products. For instance, pre-packaged coffee pods made with their material dissolve completely in hot water, streamlining preparation and eliminating waste. This concept exemplifies how dissolvable packaging could transform disposable systems, fostering circularity through innovation.

The technology is not only biobased but also designed to integrate seamlessly into existing production systems, requiring minimal adaptation. For designers, this represents a chance to create sustainable packaging solutions that retain compatibility with established manufacturing and logistics infrastructure.

Applications Beyond Packaging
Beyond food and beverage, DisSolves’ material could also inspire applications in other design disciplines, such as product design and interior innovation. For example, single-use items like cleaning product pods or dissolvable air fresheners could leverage this technology, aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainable and non-toxic materials.

Expanding Production Capabilities
Following successful seed funding, DisSolves plans to open its pilot production facility in early 2025. This milestone will enable collaborations with brands aiming to incorporate sustainable dissolvable materials into their products. The company’s goal is to expand its application portfolio across multiple sectors, from household care to packaging and more.

Why It Matters for Designers
The introduction of plastic-free dissolvable packaging is particularly relevant for material-focused disciplines. Designers seeking innovative, sustainable solutions can adopt this biobased material to reduce environmental footprints while enhancing functionality. The shift toward circular and renewable materials is no longer optional; it is becoming a defining factor for industries aiming to stay competitive and relevant.

DisSolves’ breakthrough highlights the growing role of biobased materials in shaping a sustainable future, making it a promising resource for forward-thinking designers across sectors.

Source: DisSolves Press Release
Photos: DisSolves