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Big Idea Venture's Generation Food Rural Partners (GFRP) has expanded its portfolio with an agreement to acquire Pittsburgh-based edible packaging company DisSolves. DisSolves has created a patented technology employing biodegradable and edible elements, certified as Generally Recognised As Safe (GRAS). This technology produces films and packaging materials suitable for various applications, such as encapsulants, nutraceuticals and different types of pods. These materials dissolve in water, milk and juice without altering their original taste and are conveniently packaged in small units for easy use. Frank Klemens, managing director of the GFRP fund, said: “The GFRP team is thrilled to welcome DisSolves into our family of innovative companies. DisSolves is bridging technology and food packaging to create solutions that are critical to reducing the impact of legacy packaging systems across many segments of the food supply chain. We are excited to work with Jared to advance his innovations in edible films and bring his unique vision to the market.” DisSolves founder Jared Raszewski will remain with DisSolves as chief product officer, continuing development and commercialisation of these materials. Raszewski commented: “DisSolves was founded to reimagine food packaging in a way that’s both safe and environmentally friendly. Thanks to the fund’s resources and support, we’ll be able to fulfil pilot programmes with some of the largest food producers in the industry. This will lead to scaled manufacturing for the first all-natural dissolvable food packaging.” The GFRP Fund was launched by Big Idea Ventures and assesses intellectual property centred on advancements in the agriculture, food and protein sectors. It allocates investments towards establishing new enterprises built upon research with significant potential for widespread commercial success. These emerging companies will be based in rural communities, generating well-paying jobs to stimulate economic growth and development. The transaction marks a successful exit for DisSolves’ investors, including Innovation Works. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.