SARS Edible Straw from Sea Grapes as an Effort Utilization of Marine Resources for Health

Abstract

Plastic waste is one of the threats to marine life, including plastic straw wastes. SARS Edible Straw is an edible straw made of cassava pulp flour combined with chitosan and sorbitol and the addition of sea grapes extract. Sea grapes extract contains bioactive compounds such as protein, polysaccharides, polyphenol, flavonoid, and antioxidants which are used as fortification to enhance the benefit of SARS Edible Straw. The aim of this study is to increase the added-value and progress of sea grapes as domestic products, on the other hand to improve maritime-based community development to support sustainable conservation of marine environment. Furthermore, to reduce the use of plastic straws in daily life, by utilizing Sea grapes which are rich in antioxidant to make SARS Edible Straw. The methods of this study start from cassava flour preparation, Sea grapes extract preparation, and SARS Edible Straw preparation with biodegradability test, water resistance test, and antioxidant test. The results showed that SARS Edible Straw has the potential as a substitute for plastic straws so that it can reduce plastic waste and is environmentally friendly as indicated by the results of biodegradation tests that meet the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) > 60% for 1 week, SARS Edible Straw is also beneficial for health by fortifying Sea grapes extract which is rich in antioxidants, and can increase the selling value of Sea grapes commodities.