Food Packaging Materials

Explore our packaging materials guide below to learn about the options available and find the best fit for your business.

Click or tap the below images to view more information.

 

 
 
 
 
 

Sustainable Food & Drink Packaging Materials General FAQs

 

 

The most eco-friendly packaging material is the best plastic alternative that you can use! Different materials have different benefits depending on individual needs. Bagasse is a great compostable alternative that’s great for hot and cold foods alike that require a sturdy container.

Wooden cutlery is a fantastic cost-effective solution with both recyclable and compostable applications. There is no one “best” solution, but a combination of many will deliver the best results.

 
 

There are different reasons to choose between recyclable or compostable packaging for your business:

  • Compostable packaging (e.g. bagasse, PLA-lined paper) breaks down into natural matter. We offer options for both home composting or commercial composting.
  • Recyclable packaging (e.g. rPET, paper, foil) can be reprocessed into new materials. Much like compostable packaging, there are options available for both home recycling and those that require a dedicated facility.
    •  

    It is important to provide your own customers with clear disposal instructions to ensure our packaging solutions are disposed of correctly, to ensure wherever possible compostable and recyclable packaging doesn’t end up in landfill.

     
     

    Yes. Materials like bagasse, paper, and rPET are competitively priced compared to plastic or styrofoam, especially as taxes on virgin plastics increase.

    Our packaging options are available in bulk, get in touch to find out more about our scaling pricing to find the best and most cost-effective solution for your packaging requirements.

     
     

    Yes. Bagasse, greaseproof paper, and lined paper products are specifically designed to withstand heat, grease, and moisture. Many of our products are leak proof and leak resistant ensuring any greasy dishes stay well contained.

     
     

    Consider:

  • Type of food (hot, cold, greasy, liquid)
  • Customer use (takeaway, delivery, dine-in)
  • Disposal options (composting vs. recycling in your region)
    •   

    To find out more about our packaging options, get in touch with our team and we’ll be able to offer more assistance on the best type of packaging for your business needs.

     
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    If you would like to test out our products before you place an order, please submit a sample request form, or contact us by phone at +44(0)20 3006 2432, Whatsapp or email info@packagingenvironmental.co.uk. We'll be happy to send you samples within a few days.

     
     

    The most eco-friendly packaging material is the best plastic alternative that you can use! Different materials have different benefits depending on individual needs. Bagasse is a great compostable alternative that’s great for hot and cold foods alike that require a sturdy container.

    Wooden cutlery is a fantastic cost-effective solution with both recyclable and compostable applications. There is no one “best” solution, but a combination of many will deliver the best results.

     
     

    There are different reasons to choose between recyclable or compostable packaging for your business:

  • Compostable packaging (e.g. bagasse, PLA-lined paper) breaks down into natural matter. We offer options for both home composting or commercial composting.
  • Recyclable packaging (e.g. rPET, paper, foil) can be reprocessed into new materials. Much like compostable packaging, there are options available for both home recycling and those that require a dedicated facility.
    •  

    It is important to provide your own customers with clear disposal instructions to ensure our packaging solutions are disposed of correctly, to ensure wherever possible compostable and recyclable packaging doesn’t end up in landfill.

     
     

    Yes. Materials like bagasse, paper, and rPET are competitively priced compared to plastic or styrofoam, especially as taxes on virgin plastics increase.

    Our packaging options are available in bulk, get in touch to find out more about our scaling pricing to find the best and most cost-effective solution for your packaging requirements.

     
     

    Yes. Bagasse, greaseproof paper, and lined paper products are specifically designed to withstand heat, grease, and moisture. Many of our products are leak proof and leak resistant ensuring any greasy dishes stay well contained.

     
     

    Consider:

  • Type of food (hot, cold, greasy, liquid)
  • Customer use (takeaway, delivery, dine-in)
  • Disposal options (composting vs. recycling in your region)
    •   

    To find out more about our packaging options, get in touch with our team and we’ll be able to offer more assistance on the best type of packaging for your business needs.

     
     

    If you would like to test out our products before you place an order, please submit a sample request form, or contact us by phone at +44(0)20 3006 2432, Whatsapp or email info@packagingenvironmental.co.uk. We'll be happy to send you samples within a few days.

     
     

    Compostable packaging is made from plant-based materials that compost into soil within about 60–90 days under proper conditions. It turns into compost, water, and carbon dioxide—without harmful leftovers.

     
     

    Compostable materials are a specific type of biodegradable—they break down faster (within about 90 days) and have certified testing to EN 13432.

    Some compostable products and materials require special composting facilities to ensure they’re able to break down within the 30-90 period, whereas many biodegradable products can be composted at home.

     
     

    By the EN 13432 standard, compostable packaging must break apart within 12 weeks and biodegrade at least 90% within 180 days in an industrial composting facility

     
     

    No — compostable items are not recyclable and can spoil plastic recycling systems. Only compost them in designated compost bins, home or commercial, depending on the specific disposal instructions for that product.

    If you are unable to compost these products, they are suitable for general waste where they can break down in landfill.

     
     

    In landfills without air, it breaks down very slowly or may not compost properly. Unlike some materials that emit methane, compostable packaging generally behaves like organic waste when in contact with air and moisture.

     
     

    Some items like paper or bagasse work in home compost. But many require industrial composting facilities with higher heat and airflow to meet the 60–90 day timeline.

     
     

    Compostable packaging is cost-effective, doesn’t alter the taste of the food or drink packaged within, whilst keeping many desirable properties such as being durable, leak-resistant or leak-proof, and with great insulating properties.

    For businesses that are more conscious about their environmental impact, and with growing customer demands for more eco-friendly packaging, compostable options strike a great balance.

     
     

    Compostable packaging is made from plant-based materials that compost into soil within about 60–90 days under proper conditions. It turns into compost, water, and carbon dioxide—without harmful leftovers.

     
     

    Compostable materials are a specific type of biodegradable—they break down faster (within about 90 days) and have certified testing to EN 13432.

    Some compostable products and materials require special composting facilities to ensure they’re able to break down within the 30-90 period, whereas many biodegradable products can be composted at home.

     
     
    • Shows commitment to the environment
    • Helps reduce landfill waste
    • Works well for eco‑focused branding
    • Meets food safety and eco standards
     

    Certainly! If you would like to test our products before making a purchase, we can provide samples for you to evaluate. Please reach out to us via phone at +44(0)20 3006 2432, Whatsapp or email info@packagingenvironmental.co.uk. Our team will be happy to assist you and send the samples to you within a few days.