Serving Sustainability: Eco-friendly Packaging for your Food Business
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Did you know the UK generates over 2.2 million tonnes of plastic packaging waste each year? Unfortunately, much of this ends up in landfill or polluting the environment. Food service businesses, which rely heavily on single-use packaging, play a significant role in this problem.
Switching to sustainable alternatives helps reduce environmental harm while meeting growing consumer demand for greener practices. This guide explores the importance of sustainable packaging, highlights trends shaping the industry, and offers a practical guide to eco-friendly solutions that make a real difference.
Sustainable packaging is essential for food service businesses
Research by Trivium shows that 79% of people actively seek out products with sustainable packaging.
Regulatory changes are also accelerating the shift. UK legislation such as the Plastic Packaging Tax and bans on single-use plastics have made sustainable materials not just a preference, but often a necessity. This trend is only going to continue.
In short, adopting sustainable packaging is essential for any business looking to connect with the market.
The eco-friendly materials behind sustainable packaging
Eco-friendly packaging solutions often use compostable, biodegradable or recyclable materials as an alternative to traditional plastics. Bagasse, for example, is made from sugarcane waste and is both sturdy and fully compostable, making it an ideal choice for plates, bowls and takeaway containers.
PLA, a bioplastic derived from cornstarch, is another popular material for items like clear lids and cold cups. Paper and cardboard remain versatile options, particularly for trays, boxes and bags, while natural materials like palm leaf and wood provide compostable and visually appealing choices for cutlery and plates. These materials combine environmental benefits with practical performance, making them well-suited to food service businesses.
A guide to sustainable packaging categories
In the food service industry, the right packaging not only serves a functional purpose but also makes a statement about your commitment to sustainability. At iKrafts, we offer a range of eco-friendly options tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses.
Takeaway containers and food boxes
For cafes, street food vendors and restaurants offering to-go options, bagasse clamshell boxes and paperboard trays provide an environmentally friendly way to serve hot or cold dishes. Bagasse is durable, heat-resistant and compostable, making it ideal for holding everything from burgers to curries. Paperboard food boxes, often used for pasta, salads and desserts, are recyclable and lightweight, ensuring convenience without waste.
Cutlery, plates and bowls
For catering events, outdoor dining or fast-food services, compostable cutlery, plates and bowls are essential. Wooden cutlery is a robust alternative to plastic, offering the same usability while being fully biodegradable. Palm-leaf plates bring an elegant touch to presentations, making them popular for weddings and events, while bagasse bowls are perfect for soups, stews and salads. These products demonstrate that practicality and style can go hand-in-hand with sustainability.
Cake packaging
When it comes to bakeries and patisseries, sustainable packaging doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or aesthetics. Corrugated cake boxes offer sturdy protection for delicate desserts while being recyclable. Compostable bases provide a stable foundation for cakes, and plastic-free cake bands allow for professional presentation without contributing to waste. These options are perfect for both small-scale bakers and large bakeries seeking greener solutions.
Paper bags and carrier bags
Paper bags are a versatile solution for cafes, bakeries and grocery stores. From small sandwich bags to larger kraft paper carriers, these options cater to a variety of needs. Many of iKrafts’ paper bags are biodegradable and compostable, ensuring they’re as kind to the planet as they are practical. Greaseproof paper bags are also available for items like pastries and fried foods, combining functionality with sustainability.
Tubs and lids
For soups, salads, ice cream, and other takeaway foods, compostable tubs and lids provide an excellent eco-friendly option. Tubs lined with PLA are leak-resistant and sturdy, ensuring they can handle both hot and cold items. Clear compostable lids allow customers to see their food while keeping it secure. These containers are perfect for delis, food trucks, and caterers looking to reduce waste without compromising on quality.
Trends shaping the future of sustainable packaging
Consumer awareness of environmental issues continues to rise, driving demand for businesses to adopt greener practices. Trends such as minimalist packaging and the use of compostable materials reflect a broader push toward low-waste designs. Legislative developments like the UK Plastic Packaging Tax have also encouraged businesses to rethink their packaging strategies, pushing them toward sustainable alternatives. At the same time, innovations in materials, including edible packaging and water-soluble options, point to an exciting future for the industry.
The benefits of choosing eco-friendly packaging for your business
Adopting sustainable packaging can help your business reduce its environmental impact, both by minimising waste and cutting reliance on non-renewable materials. It can also enhance customer loyalty, with eco-conscious consumers increasingly favouring businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Compliance with environmental regulations becomes easier with eco-friendly options, reducing the risk of penalties while future-proofing operations. Additionally, sustainable packaging can contribute to a positive brand image, positioning your business as socially responsible and forward-thinking in a competitive market.
Ready to meet you eco-friendly goals? Discover iKrafts’ range of environmentally friendly packaging.
