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

BACKGROUND: 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.
AIM: 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, and, 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.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The methods of this experimental study start from cassava flour preparation, sea grapes
extract preparation, and SARS edible straw preparation with biodegradability test, water resistance test, and antioxidant test.
RESULTS: The best formulation of SARS edible straw was A2 with a comparison of cassava pulp
flour: chitosan:sorbitol: sea grape extract which was 7:5:5:2, respectively, in both essences added and non-essence
variation. 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 >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.
CONCLUSIONS: Besides its potential as a substitute for the plastic straw, which is more environmentally friendly
and also can reduce the use of plastic wastes, SARS edible straw with the fortification of sea grapes extract rich in
antioxidants can give more benefits to health as well.