Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Scientists at the University of California, Davis invented a way to make gelatin hydrogels that can freeze and thaw without meltwater. This work could solve problems for food storage and cold-chain shipping, since this “jelly ice” can reduce both cross-contamination and packaging waste.

"Sustainable bio-derived polymeric materials improving food security, food safety, and circular bioeconomy"
Presented at ACS Fall 2025 on Aug. 18, 2025
Presenter: Jiahan Zou, Ph.D.
Principal investigator: Gang Sun, Ph.D.

To read an ACS press release about this research, go to acs.org/pressroom/presspacs/2025/august/reusable-jelly-ice-keeps-things-cold-without-meltwater.html

Video credits:
Written and produced by Anne Hylden
Editing and animations by Janali Thompson
Narrated by Anne Hylden
Series produced by Vangie Koonce, Anne Hylden, Andrew Sobey, and Jefferson Beck
Executive produced by Matthew Radcliff

Research videos from Jiahan Zou and UC Davis
Sound effects: Soundsnap
Music: “All for You” by ES from Triple Scoop Music

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#ice #compost #reuse #chemistry #shipping