5 Alternatives to Plastic You Should Consider Adopting In Your Packaging

With the growing demand for eco-friendly products, companies continue to look for plastic alternatives for their packaging designs. Luckily in today’s technology-driven world, finding cost-effective, high-quality, sustainable packaging is easier than ever. Not only will it allow businesses to attract this growing market, but it will have a positive impact on the environment. That is why we’ve highlighted a few alternatives to plastic packaging.

Packaging Made From Mushrooms

For this type of packaging, the design starts from the ground up. Mushroom packaging is a viable alternative to plastic as it is biodegradable and is as resilient as traditional packaging material. It is made of fungus roots and residues from farming and then molded into the desired shape and size needed. After use, consumers can break down the packaging in the compost at their homes or feel good knowing it won’t pollute the environment.

Biodegradable and Non-Toxic Packing Peanuts

Have you ever wanted to eat those packing peanuts that filled your box? We haven’t either, but with new biodegradable plastic packaging, you can! Many businesses are using peanuts made from cornstarch, coconut husks, and peat moss. While we still don’t recommend eating any packaging material, this sustainable alternative is perfect for protecting sensitive items.

Plantable Packaging

One cool solution businesses are implementing in their alternative packaging is making them plantable. Not only is the packaging biodegradable, but each will have seeds embedded in the fiberboard so consumers can plant and grow their gardens. This is a complete 180° to the effects of plastic packaging.

PLA Lined Paper

This form of sustainable packaging is one of the most effective solutions to replacing plastic materials. PLA stands for polylactic acid and is a resin made from corn starch. It is primarily used to make compostable containers and is used as a liner in paper cups and containers to keep paper from getting soggy. It can withstand temperatures between 32 and 185 degrees, and because of its corn starch material, it is compostable.

Bagasse and Molded Fiber Containers

These materials are very similar, but both are effective alternatives to plastic. Bagasse and molded fiber can be molded into containers, plates, and bowls, which can withstand temperatures between 0 and 250 degrees. Bagasse is made from leftover byproducts of sugar and wheat extraction processes, while molded fiber is made from recycled paperboard, newspapers, and/or corrugated cardboard. Much like PLA paper, both can be composted at the end of their life.

Pioneer Packaging Has Your Plastic Alternative

At Pioneer Packaging, we help businesses in all industries design innovative packaging solutions that fit their needs. Whether they’re looking for a sustainable plastic alternative or a complete redesign, we’ve helped hundreds of clients reach their goals. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your goals.

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