Tech Made Simple

Hot Topics: How to Fix Bluetooth Pairing Problems | Complete Guide to Facebook Privacy | How to Block Spam Calls | Snapchat Symbol Meaning

We may earn commissions when you buy from links on our site. Why you can trust us.

author photo

Car Parts Made From Ketchup By-Products?

by Fox Van Allen on June 11, 2014

Heinz Ketchup Plant in Ohio I love ketchup. I put it on everything – burgers, fries, chicken nuggets, eggs – you name it. And soon, thanks to a partnership between ketchup giant Heinz and the Ford Motor Company, my car could be made from ketchup, too.

Heinz uses over 2 million tons of tomatoes annually in its ketchup-making process, but many parts of the tomato – stems, skins, and various tomato fibers – go unused. Researchers at both Ford and Heinz are studying the use of these by-products as environmentally friendly vehicle components. Ford suggests that dried skins, for example, could be used as wiring brackets.

“Although we are in the very early stages of research, and many questions remain, we are excited about the possibilities this could produce for both Heinz and Ford, and the advancement of sustainable 100% plant-based plastics,” said Vidhu Nagpal, associate director of packaging R&D for Heinz.

The idea of a car built with ketchup leftovers may sound a bit outlandish, but it’s actually nothing new for Ford. Currently, Ford vehicles contain a number of sustainable parts including soy foam cushions, rice hulls and even coconut-based composites.


Topics

Car Tech & Safety, News, Travel & Entertainment, Blog, Green Tech


Discussion loading

Home | About | Meet the Team | Contact Us
Media Kit | Newsletter Sponsorships | Licensing & Permissions
Accessibility Statement
Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookie Policy

Techlicious participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which provide a small commission from some, but not all, of the "click-thru to buy" links contained in our articles. These click-thru links are determined after the article has been written, based on price and product availability — the commissions do not impact our choice of recommended product, nor the price you pay. When you use these links, you help support our ongoing editorial mission to provide you with the best product recommendations.

© Techlicious LLC.