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.

The 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.

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 custom printed paper cup &paper bowls 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!

Some options for Eco-Friendly Food and Drink Packaging

Sustainable Cups for hot drinks

Cafes and coffee shops will love our range of disposable eco-friendly paper cups &paper bowls 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 cups made from FSC 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.

Plastic Cups

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.

Biodegradable and Compostable Plates

Here’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 paper cups and bowls are made from bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane processing and the beauty is, this range is 100% home compostable.

Takeaway food boxes

This 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.

Customize biodegradabel PLA drinking straw

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.

Cutlery: Forks, Knives & Spoons

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 cutlery which are a popular.

Environmentally Friendly Paper Bags

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,paper bowls ,papre bags, food boxes and so on. Let your brand shine with our custom print service.