Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions containing a modified starch, the starch modified to contain ester linkages to multiple short-chain fatty acids of different lengths; in particular, containing linkages to acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Methods for making and using such starch esters are described, as are compositions including the starch ester for nutritional effects and health benefits.

Abstract: An improved garbage or refuse container having a substantially rectangular shaped container with blunt or smooth edges. The container includes a top portion, bottom portion and body portion for retaining refuse. The body portion forms the walls of the container and includes a door having at least one fastening mechanism integrally disposed therein for securing the door to the body portion. The door is contiguously and pivotally formed or joined with the body as a single material element. A receiving portion of the body with the door also includes a retaining plate or lip on a separate and opposing end of the body and is formed also as a single contiguous material element with the body for matingly receiving and retaining the door in a closed configuration along a peripheral edge portion. Proximate and adjacent the retaining lip is disposed within the body at least one connector element for respectively connecting thereto at least one snap fastener.