A new type of food-grade plastic-free packaging made of sugarcane is designed to be easily composted after use.
Sustainability is a hot topic with consumers. More than two-thirds seek out brands that are sustainable and environmentally responsible. Of these, 72% will pay more for products meeting these standards, according to market research from IBM.
“An unimaginable quantity of single use plastic packaging is produced and thrown away every day. The waste piles up to clutter and pollutes our earth, air and water. We see a great value in offering an alternative to plastic in the instances where it is mass produced and thrown away in large quantities,” explained Lior Itai, CEO and co-founder of W-Cycle.
Challenges to eco-friendly packaging design
Although consumers consistently rate sustainability as a priority, they also want containers that are resealable, microwaveable and keep food fresh.
Cost is another barrier. Production costs for sustainable options are approximately 25% higher than traditional packaging.
Made of sugarcane waste
The plastic-free packaging is 100% natural and compostable, durable and cost-effective. It is made of sugarcane waste called bagasse, the dry pulpy fibrous matter left over after the juice is extracted from sugarcane stalks.
Although standard pulp products have difficulty containing oils and liquids, these containers are resistant to oil and water, preventing leakage when used to store meat, poultry and sea food products.
In addition, the packaging can be frozen to -40 °F and reheated to 518 °F. After use, it can be disposed of as organic matter.
“We have developed a fully compostable bagasse tray that is still durable enough to withstand the water coming out of the poultry. It can withstand frozen chicken and the oils of a roasted chicken. For pre-seasoned chicken, it can also be used in the oven. SupraPulp has game-changing functionality consumers or retailers need when they want to heat, freeze, or microwave convenience food products,” Itai said.
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