Trends in Sustainable Food Packaging

The foodservice industry is witnessing a significant shift towards eco-friendly practices, with sustainable food packaging trends leading the charge. As we navigate through 2024, the demand for environmentally responsible packaging solutions continues to grow. For foodservice businesses, staying ahead of these trends is crucial for meeting consumer expectations and complying with evolving regulations.

Here are some of the latest sustainable food packaging trends and the innovative products reshaping the foodservice sector.

For instance, the New York State styrofoam ban, which started in January 2022, has an impact on the foodservice packaging items that companies in the state can provide to their clients. Maintaining client satisfaction and repeat business by providing sustainable packaging and foodservice items will help you stay in compliance with laws as they evolve.

Three main sustainability ideas have become increasingly popular in recent years. We’ll discuss what these evolving trends mean for you below, along with any potential options you might want to consider.

The Growing Importance of Sustainable Packaging

According to a recent study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), packaging contributes substantially to municipal solid waste. This awareness has catalyzed a movement towards sustainable alternatives, driven by:

1. Increased consumer awareness of environmental impacts
2. Implementation of delayed regulations post-pandemic
3. Corporate sustainability goals and initiatives

Learn more about the impact of packaging on the environment.

Defining Sustainable Packaging

Sustainable packaging goes beyond just being recyclable. To truly qualify as sustainable, packaging should:

• Be responsibly sourced and designed
• Be manufactured using renewable energy
• Be efficiently recyclable or compostable
• Have a minimal environmental footprint throughout its lifecycle

For a deep dive into sustainable packaging principles, check out our Ultimate Guide to Packaging.

Leading Trends in Sustainable Food Packaging

Trend #1. Alternatives to Single-Use Plastic Bags

With many states and localities banning or restricting single-use plastic bags, foodservice businesses are turning to alternatives such as:

• Paper Bags – Made from recycled content, these are widely recyclable.
• Reusable Cloth Bags – Durable and washable, perfect for long-term use.
• Non Woven Fabric Bags – Made from PET or polypropylene, these offer durability and recyclability.

Trend #2. Biodegradable & Compostable Materials

Innovative materials that break down naturally are gaining traction:

• PLA (polylactic acid) derived from corn starch – Derived from corn starch, these look like plastic but are compostable.
• Bagasse (sugarcane fiber) containers – Made from sugarcane fiber, these are sturdy and naturally biodegradable.
• Mushroom-based packaging – Created from mycelium, this forward-thinking material is fully compostable.

Trend #3. Minimalist Packaging Design

Reducing material use through smart design is a key sustainable food packaging trend:

• Streamlined shapes that use less material – Containers designed to use less material while maintaining functionality.
• Multi-functional packaging – Items that serve multiple purposes, reducing overall packaging needs.
• Concentrated product packaging – Smaller containers for concentrated products, reducing plastic use.

Trend #4. Recyclable & Easily Separable Components

Packaging designed for easy recycling:

• Mono-Material Designs – Packaging made from a single type of plastic for easier recycling.
• Easily Separable Components (e.g., removable plastic windows from paper boxes) – Packaging with parts that can be easily separated for recycling.
• Clear Recycling Instructions – Packaging with easy-to-understand recycling guidance.

Trend #5. Reusable & Refillable Systems

Encouraging customers to bring their own containers or implementing deposit systems:

• Durable, Reusable Takeout Containers – High-quality containers designed for multiple uses
• Refill Stations – Allow customers to refill their own beverage and dry goods containers
• Incentive Programs – Rewards for customers using their own containers

Trend #6. Tamper safe packaging

In the evolving landscape of sustainable food packaging trends, tamper evident solutions are gaining popularity. This specialized packaging provides an additional layer of security for your food products.

While some instances of product tampering may be relatively harmless – such as customers sampling products before purchase – more serious cases can pose significant risks to food safety and your brand reputation.

These progressive packaging options offer several valuable benefits for both foodservice businesses and their customers:

• Alert customers to potential product alterations, whether accidental or intentional
• Enable customers to easily identify and avoid compromised packages
• Maintain the integrity of your food delivery services

5 Ways Foodservice Businesses Can Contribute

To align with these trends and contribute to sustainable food packaging trends:

1. Conduct a packaging audit to identify improvement areas.
2. Educate staff and customers on proper disposal and recycling.
3. Partner with suppliers prioritizing sustainable materials.
4. Implement a reusable container program.
5. Stay informed about local regulations and upcoming changes.

Embracing Sustainable Packaging in Foodservice

As we progress through the remainder of 2024, the importance of sustainable packaging in the foodservice industry cannot be overstated. By embracing these trends and innovative solutions, businesses can comply with regulations and meet the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible practices.

The journey towards sustainability is ongoing. Stay informed, be adaptable, and continue to seek out new ways to reduce your environmental impact while serving your customers efficiently and responsibly.

Explore our comprehensive range of eco friendly foodservice packaging solutions >