The global pandemic has shown us that in difficult times, innovation brings the winners to the forefront. Paradigm shifts across entire industries and geographies demand disruption of the traditional, the conventional and the rigid. This is as true for the hospitality industry, as it is for several others, wherein players that have explored different models and successfully pivoted their businesses to cater to new opportunities are thriving.
Takeaway food has been the need of the hour, and many food service chains getting this right are here to stay! There has never been more demand for food packaging than there is now due to the rising popularity of home delivery services, as well as pick-up only requirements during lockdowns.
“Consumers are focused on sustainability in packaging with 56% of shoppers actively trying to purchase environmentally friendly products.” (Nel & Sarwar, 2020)
“More than 70% of customers are willing to pay a green premium for a product if it comes in eco-friendly packaging “. (McKinsey Quarterly, 2012)
The facts about eco-friendly disposable packaging have been a grey area until recent times. We provide you with the facts as well as access to purchasing disposable packaging at the forefront of sustainability in this article.
Why is Sustainable Food Packaging important?
In addition to packaging that is functional, sturdy, and attractive – you want to ensure it is eco-friendly as well. With rising awareness about consumption consciousness, you want to communicate that your brand cares about the planet.
In 2018, Australia established the 2025 National Packaging Targets. These targets are focused on managing sustainable packing and they are:
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100% of packaging being reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025
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70% of plastic packaging is recycled or composted by 2025
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A 50% national average of recycled content encompassing packaging by 2025
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Phasing out single-use packaging by 2025
One of the most important parts of eco-friendly packaging is the materials used to produce the packaging of products. Some of these materials require specialised recycling centres that meet specific criteria to adequately process sustainable packaging. This is something to consider when selecting your products and implementing recycling repositories in your business.
What is Sustainable or Eco-Friendly Packaging?
Sustainable, eco-friendly, environmentally friendly, and/or recycled packaging is important for many reasons. At the forefront is the reduction of waste and the carbon footprint of businesses. Second, is an increase in sales as customers are environmentally focused with corporate social responsibility initiatives working in the favour of purchase decision making.
One of the most important aspects of sustainability is the decision to purchase food packaging that is safe for food consumption and environmentally friendly or recyclable to reduce the impact on landfill overflow.
Types of eco-friendly food packaging that is kind to the environment
Kraft Paper
This eco-friendly option is used internationally. It is recognised as butcher paper or brown paper in appearance and it derives its name from the German word Kraft which means resistance and strength. Kraft paper is made of wood pulp that is recyclable and compostable.
PET and rPET
PET Plastic is made of materials that are non-toxic, flexible, and most notably recyclable. It is the most popular form of transparent packaging that is lightweight and available in assorted colours.
RPET is a new and emerging trend when it comes to PET plastics. RPET products are developed from used plastic bottles that are chopped into tiny pieces, melted, then used to make an array of products from sweaters to more plastic bottles. The benefit of RPET is it takes 50% less energy to produce than manufacturing PET from scratch with a greater benefit of not returning to landfill which is a huge bonus.
Cornstarch
Food packaging developed from cornstarch is most suited to meals that are not liquid. These food containers are made from corn and maize plants meaning they are biodegradable however they must be processed by specific recycling plants that follow strict guidelines required to break them down into carbon dioxide and water. The materials are cheap and easy to produce however, it is vital they have a dedicated collection bin for pickup by an approved recycling processing agent.
Glass Packaging
Glass is an eco-friendly material with the advantage of being able to be used over and over without the loss of quality or integrity. The most commonly used jars in food packaging are glassware, bottles and jars. Since glass can be sterilised for reuse, it is a viable option for sustainable food packaging due to its longevity and ability to be repurposed.
Metal Packaging
Metal packaging is most commonly used to package carbonated and non-carbonated drinks. Commercial packaging of fluids is viable for inclusion on this eco-friendly list as they can be recycled infinitely via crushing, melting, and re-production.
Recycled Cardboard and Paper Packaging
Cardboard and Paper Packaging materials are very friendly to the environment. From fast food boxes to straws and packaging applications, the materials are easily biodegradable taking up little landfill mass. It’s important to check the cardboard or paper packaging you use does not include harmful mineral oils or substances that may contaminate food.
Compostable Packaging
This food packaging is made from sugarcane fibre with is a by-product of the sugar manufacturing industry, a big player in the Australian economy. These products are safe to use in the microwave and are 100% biodegradable via strict processes in approved commercial composting facilities. Lose yourself in our Packaging & Disposals Category exploring the array of compostable products available from trays and bowls, to cutlery and cups.
But please note, you will need a dedicated waste collection bin for this packaging ready for pick-up by an approved composting facility in your area.
As you go about the curation of your packaging line in line with your brand ethos, think about these traits in your material and product selection:
- Will this make your takeaway packaging biodegradable? is it made of natural material and will it decompose in the environment through natural methods?
- Is it compostable? Will it decompose without the release of toxins?
- Is it reusable? Can this be used more than once by a customer?
- Is it recyclable? Can this material be used or turned into another product without the need to dispose of it?
- Is it renewable? Can it regenerate itself?
These tips should help you craft a takeaway packaging line that is sure to resonate with your consumers!
10 Options for Eco-Friendly Food and Drink Packaging
Cafes and coffee shops will love our range of disposable eco-friendly cups available in an array of sizes. We have a comprehensive range of insulated cups suitable for your business.
Delight your eco-conscious coffee lovers with this range of Earth Essentials Cups made from FCS paper board. This means the material the cups are made of are sourced from forests that are responsibly managed in the most environmentally sustainable way possible.
Reusable packaging is optimal for sustainability as it eliminates contributions to landfills. As a bonus, you can label these products with your company name and brand with Reward Hospitality’s custom printing service. Let your brand shine on this reusable merchandise while promoting yourself as an eco-conscious food and beverage business.
These clear recyclable cups are available in a range of sizes. They are suitable for cold beverages, slushies, milkshakes, alcohol, cold desserts and so much more. The cups can be matched with the Dome Lid which is also recyclable.
There’s a lot to choose from in our catalogue of plates and containers with an array of eco-friendly options to suit your needs. This range of Earth Essentials plates and bowls are made from Bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane processing and the beauty is, this range is 100% home compostable.
This Earth Essentials Kraft Range of takeaway boxes are made from sturdy corrugated F Fluted board making these the perfect packages for hot and greasy foods. This range is 100% recyclable and home compostable. Why not take it a step further with our custom printing service, showcasing your brand as well as your eco-friendly initiatives that will please your customers?
If there’s one product every food & beverage business needs to focus on purchasing right now, it’s paper straws. Reward Hospitality has an abundance of options for your choosing including cocktail straws and regular size straws that are eco-friendly.
Reward Hospitality has a diverse range of cutlery items including those that are eco-friendly or sustainable. Check out our collection of individual pieces as well as our range of wooden cutlery which are a popular alternative to plastic and PLA cutlery.
Made from sustainably sourced Birchwood, these food containers are ideal for events and food truck services to serve products such as chicken and chips, calamari, nuggets, onion rings and so much more.
These 60ml source containers are made from sugarcane pulp, a by-product of the sugar refining industry, and it is also certified for home compost. The matching clear lids are produced from PET and certified as industrially compostable to Australian AS4736 standards.
If it’s a carry bag you need, then it’s an eco-friendly paper bag you may want to invest in. These recyclable, compostable, and reusable bags have a paper twist handle able to hold weight – making them ideal for food or grocery bags. Get ahead of your competitors with a custom print to help your brand stand out with Reward Hospitality’s custom print service.
Stay on Trend with Branded Food Packaging
With the wide variety of options available, coupled with a rising level of consciousness in sustainable packaging, you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to promote your eco-friendly business. Tweak your packaging with a unique design and branding to match your collateral. Promoting your business’ eco-friendly and social responsibilities on your sustainable packaging may also give you an edge over the competition.
Reward Hospitality has the solution with our custom printing service for all products including coffee cups, napkins, bags, food boxes and glassware. Let your brand shine with our custom print service.
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