"The development of CornNext-17 is driven by a vision to transform the way we use and discard materials. As a fully biodegradable solution, it represents not just an innovation in material science, but a milestone in humanity’s journey toward a greener, more sustainable future."

Randy Zhang, Founder and CEO of Corn Next

“I love the ocean and as a competitive sailor, I have had the privilege of seeing more of it than most and have often found myself out on the water with nothing but blue in all directions with plastic bobbing atop the waves. On shore, I have discovered dead marine life choked by plastic and it broke my heart. Thus, I committed myself to finding a plastic replacement that could save our oceans and planet as a whole.  

The solution came to me in Salt Lake City. It was the middle of the night, and I was wide awake in my hotel room. I had been touring a long list of proposed plastic alternatives but had yet to find a 100% biodegradable material that wouldn't leave behind waste. While I was searching for something to read in order to drift off to sleep, I found a Bible in the nightstand and I opened it at random. I read a story about how corn saved people from famine that night and it sparked an idea— could corn be the solution?  

I visited universities all over the country to find out if corn truly was a remedy, but I was told the same thing repetitively, ‘corn could not work,’ ‘corn cannot stick together as well as other starches,’ But as fortune would have it, I met a research professor who claimed otherwise. In fact, he had discovered a way to fuse natural enzymes, water and cornstarch into a fully biodegradable, polymerized material. In other words, he had found a way to make corn into the perfect material for plastic replacement.

After 8 years of research and development, we have patented a cornstarch-based material that is ready to replace single-use plastics. 100% of our straws, utensils and other products return naturally to the Earth after use without harming the ecosystem. When you choose Corn Next, you’re helping save our oceans, wildlife, and planet.” 

Why do we exist?

Changing the world.

Corn Next is a pioneering material science company with a profound commitment to cultivating a healthier planet. Our journey is far from over—every day, we remain dedicated to inventing and manufacturing innovative, sustainable solutions. We are continuously working to replace plastic and reduce carbon emissions, driving progress toward a greener, more sustainable future.

Contact us.