Breaking Down Compostable Packaging: Understanding the Benefits

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Compostable items

LK Packaging has always been proud to be a leader in the production of eco-friendly packaging. Now, we are proud to have taken the next step with the development of our first compostable pouches, containers, and bags. In addition to their many environmental advantages, compostable packages enjoy widespread consumer appeal.

Benefits of Compostable Packaging

Compostable packaging is made from materials that can be quickly broken down by microorganisms into organic matter. They undergo a decomposition process like other organic materials such as yard waste and food scraps. Once the cycle is complete, the packaging can be used like any other compost, a soil amendment that helps improve plant growth. Because of this, these products produce zero waste and a positive environmental impact.

Compostable packaging’s characteristics make it a natural choice for responsible businesses regardless of their industry. Benefits to compostable packaging include:

  • Natural materials: Compostable packaging is typically made from plant-based materials such as cellulose, starch, bamboo, wood pulp, and sugarcane.
  • Fast breakdown: When disposed of properly in a commercial facility, compostable packaging breaks down into its basic components in just a few months.
  • Full decomposition: Compostable packaging leaves no “unnatural” byproducts. Everything that is left is organic, leaving no evidence of its previous life, unlike conventional plastics that take much longer to breakdown.
  • Energy conservation – Manufacturing compostable bioplastic packaging requires less energy and emits less greenhouse gas than conventional plastics. Moreover, their raw materials are renewable.
  • Circularity – By breaking down into nutrient-rich materials, compostable packaging can help grow the next generation of plant material to be used to make more eco-friendly products. This furthers a circular economy and minimizes waste.
  • Responsibility – Consumers increasingly demand packaging that helps them reduce their environmental impact. They want to support businesses that share their values, and using compostable packaging reinforces a brand’s environmental commitment.

Types of Compostable Packaging

Eco-friendly compostable packaging comes in a variety of sizes, styles, and functions. LK Packaging makes plastic, paper, and cardboard containers from compostable material that is every bit as strong and versatile as those made via traditional methods. Many are completely safe for commercial food applications such as ready-to-eat meals and bulk packaging for bakery and deli products.

LK’s flagship compostable product line consists of:

Compostable Zipper Bags: A staple in the industrial and fresh food industries, these bags’ zippers seal tightly and completely while allowing for multiple openings and closings. LK produces them in sizes ranging from 4”x6” to 10”x12” – large enough for displaying T-shirts, snack foods, and hundreds of other commercial and retail products. Packaged in quantities of 1,000, they are just as strong as our 2 mil polybags.

Compostable Stand-up Pouches: Easily fillable, LK’s kraft paper pouches are perfect for storing and posting bulky items like dry foods, documents, cosmetics, craft supplies, and much more. Available in several sizes up to 7½”x10”, they’re equipped with a heat-sealable adhesive on the flap that makes them tamper-evident. A tear notch enables easy access for authorized recipients.

ReadyFresh Compostable Food Containers: LK’s popular ReadyFresh food display cartons are perfect for packaging to-go restaurant items, pre-made sandwiches and wraps, salads, and other convenience items.  Combining sturdy cardboard with transparent plastic viewing windows, these boxes show off the food’s freshness and wholesomeness while ensuring maximum shelf life.

Disposing of Compostable Packaging

Compostable packaging’s full environmental benefits can only be realized by using proper disposal procedures. Simply throwing it into the regular trash or recycling bin won’t work.

Full and fast composting requires the most favorable conditions including high heat and humidity and exposure to microorganisms. Home composting bins can get the job done, but generating optimal heat can be difficult outside of industrial composting facilities. Packaging labels will indicate whether they are home compostable.

Most cities municipalities maintain sites and offer services that collect compostable packaging for this use.

Compostable Packaging: An Idea Whose Time has Come

As climate, carbonization, and energy supply concerns grow more pressing every year, responsible businesses and concerned citizens seek evermore impactful ways to make a difference. LK Packaging is no different. As one of the country’s top producers of paper and plastic packaging for the food, medical, and industrial sectors, LK is uniquely positioned to drive positive results. It’s an opportunity we will not let go to waste.

Compostable packaging promises to become a game-changer, revolutionizing the way we think about transporting, storing, and selling products via packaging. This innovative solution offers a range of benefits that make it a compelling choice for protecting the planet, while fulfilling all your packaging needs.

LK Packaging invites distributors, grocery proprietors, restauranteurs, and all business owners to join us in leading the charge towards a greener tomorrow. Embrace the future of sustainability with our compostable packaging solutions. Together, we can diminish our ecological footprint, foster a circular economy, and support the flourishing of biodiversity. Listen to the calls of eco-conscious consumers and be part of the movement that aligns our daily practices with the well-being of our precious planet. Choose LK Packaging’s compostable options—because a sustainable future is not just an option; it’s our responsibility.

Get in touch to find out how and to learn more about compostable packaging products.

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