The Benefits of Using Recyclable and Industrially Compostable Paper Packaging

In 2020, 2022, and 2023, various regions across the UK introduced restrictions on the use of certain types of single-use plastic products — including stirrers, cutlery, cups, and bowls. In response, laminated paper packaging has emerged as a more sustainable alternative to items that are difficult to recycle and harmful to the environment.

Benefits of recyclable and industrial compostable paper packaging are already driving change across the food industry. Even though plastic containers and boxes have not yet been fully banned, many ice cream producers, ready-meal manufacturers, fast food outlets, cafés, restaurants, and catering companies are proactively switching to biodegradable alternatives, recognising their environmental advantages and growing consumer appeal.

Environmental and Health Advantages of Recyclable Packaging

Paper-based food containers such as boxes, trays, buckets, cups, lids, and bowls are typically made from specialised cardboard and coated with a thin layer of thermoplastic polymer. These products offer numerous advantages:

• Safe for human health. In contrast to plastic packaging, plastic free cups with barrier coating and molded fiber lids do not pose such health risks.
• Environmentally friendly. The barrier-coated cups and molded fiber lids are recyclable and can be industrially composted, while plastic cups can take over 50 years to break down. In addition, recycling plastic is far more complex and energy-intensive.

A 2021 study by Danish consultancy Ramboll, certified by TÜV (a group of independent technical inspection associations in Germany and Austria) and published by EPPA, debunked the common belief that reusable tableware is more eco-friendly. The report revealed that reusable products result in:

• 177% more CO₂ emissions,
• 267% more freshwater usage,
• 238% greater consumption of fossil fuels,
• and 72% higher soil acidification.

This research demonstrates that single-use paper-based packaging is more sustainable and cost-effective than many reusable alternatives.

Why Cardboard Packaging Makes Business Sense

Paper-based recyclable and industrial compostable packaging for food is becoming increasingly accessible, offering food producers and HoReCa businesses (including hotels, restaurants, cafés, and catering services) a wide range of strategic advantages:

• Lower operational costs. Paper packaging and disposables are affordable. Restaurants and cafés can also cut expenses on cleaning products, water usage, and labour costs associated with dishwashing.
• Faster service and easier maintenance. Disposable containers speed up service and reduce the effort required to keep facilities clean.
• A stronger, eco-conscious brand image. Using sustainable packaging positions your business as environmentally responsible. Custom-branded containers also help build brand recognition and serve as a form of mobile advertising.
• Simplified waste management. Compostable packaging streamlines disposal processes and supports sustainability goals.

One key benefit is hygiene. For busy foodservice environments, especially those with high customer turnover, maintaining cleanliness and minimising the spread of viruses or bacteria is crucial. Disposable tableware and paper packaging make this easier and more effective. Their portability also makes them ideal for takeaway and food delivery services.