Narayana Peesapaty

Indian innovator creating edible cutlery to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainable living.

Narayana Peesapaty, an ex-scientist from Hyderabad, India, launched Bakeys in 2010, producing spoons made from millet, rice, and wheat. These edible utensils decompose within 5 days if uneaten, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic cutlery that takes 450 years to degrade.

Peesapaty's inspiration came from observing farmers struggling with drought exacerbated by water-intensive crops like rice. By promoting millet—a drought-resistant grain—for his cutlery, he supports sustainable agriculture while reducing plastic waste. His TED Talk highlights how small dietary shifts can address environmental crises.

Despite initial financial struggles, Bakeys gained global traction after a 2016 Kickstarter campaign raised $300,000. Today, the company produces 100,000 spoons daily, collaborating with airlines and hotels to reduce single-use plastics.