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by EigoBoxAI
作成:2026/08/12 12:00
レベル:中級 (語彙目安:2000〜2500語)
タイプ:リーディング

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Imagine using a plastic-like fork that began as sugar. In August 2026, CJ Biomaterials showed such forks at its research center in Massachusetts. The company is developing a plant-based material called PHA. It is designed to break down naturally instead of remaining in the environment as persistent microplastics. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/838fb5b4619e5020e3c01157a312a5d8))

To make PHA, the company feeds sugar to tiny living organisms called microbes. Through a process called fermentation, the microbes change the sugar and store PHA inside their bodies as energy. The company collects this material and turns it into small pellets. Manufacturers can heat the pellets and shape them into forks, straws, food containers, and packaging. ([cjbio.net](https://cjbio.net/en/products/cjpha?utm_source=openai))

Some test forks were thin and flexible, while others were as hard as ordinary plastic forks. After use, they can be placed in suitable compost. There, bacteria consume the PHA. According to the company, its PHA can biodegrade in home or industrial compost, soil, fresh water, and the sea. In a compost pile, it may break down within six months. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/838fb5b4619e5020e3c01157a312a5d8))

However, this new fork is not a perfect answer to plastic pollution. Bioplastics often cost more than traditional plastics, and many communities do not have composting services. They can also be mixed with ordinary plastic by mistake. Researchers warn that the word “biodegradable” does not always mean that every product will quickly disappear in every environment. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/838fb5b4619e5020e3c01157a312a5d8))

Reusable metal forks are still the best choice in many situations. Still, for takeout meals and large events, a fork made from sugar could be a valuable step toward a cleaner future.

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Reusable metal forks are still the best choice in many situations. Still, for takeout meals and large events, a fork made from sugar could be a valuable step toward a cleaner future.