Compostable Packaging

At Servous, we are the leading provider and wholesaler of different food packaging solutions. We regularly partner with grocery stores, restaurants, retail stores, food trucks, farmers’ markets, and other businesses throughout the foodservice and retail industry. 

Because every business is unique, we boast the ability to tailor our products to your specific needs. From specialty containers to reusable totes, the team at Servous will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. As leaders in the industry, we offer food packaging products in many forms, including compostable packaging solutions. Let’s take a closer look at compostable materials.

What Are Compostable Materials? 

Compostable packaging is a class of products and solutions that will decompose into nutrient-rich soil in periods ranging from 30 up to 180 days depending on the method of composting used. 

To be truly compostable, all of the materials should break down into organic fertilizer over time. There are two classes: home compost and industrial compost, which are both discussed below. Examples of popular compostable packaging solutions include:

• Bagasse sugarcane meat trays
• Bagasse sugarcane produce trays
• Cornstarch meat trays
• Cornstarch produce trays
• Cornstarch containers
• Clamshell sugarcane containers
• Deli containers made of Bagasse
• Deli containers made of cornstarch

What Are the Environmental Benefits of Compostable Containers and Material?

When you’re looking to make a positive impact on the environment, there are many eco-friendly food packaging materials you can use in your store or food establishment. The main environmental benefit of compostable packaging solutions is to reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. 

While recycling is an important step, compostable packaging decomposes into nutrient-rich soil and helps support the natural cycle. Some of the other benefits include:

• Composting reduces landfill waste
• Conserves resources, such as water and energy  
• Compostable packaging is made from renewable resources, such as corn and potato starch

Compostable packaging is a great choice for any business or organization looking to make an environmentally conscious decision.

Different Types of Compostable Packaging

Within the compostable packaging field, there are two different types of composting: home composting and industrial composting. 

Home Compost Food Packaging Materials

Home compost food packaging materials should decompose in a home environment during the above-mentioned time. These products should be composted at a lower temperature than at an industrial facility. 

Industrial Compost Food Packaging Material

Industrial composting food packaging materials, on the other hand, will not decompose in a residential environment. These materials require the higher temperatures found at large industrial facilities. Industrial compostable packaging has many benefits for your business including:

• Reduces waste and pickup fees
• Helps meet sustainability standards and goals
• Helps corporations and organizations establish environmental leadership

What Is Compostable Packaging Made Of?

Compostable packaging material can be made from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. While these compostable packaging materials are renewable, they also offer other benefits such as:

• Increased strength
• Compostability
• Biodegradability  
• Food safety compliance

FDA-Approved Compostable Food Packaging & Storage Solutions

Compostable packaging is a great choice for those looking to create an environmentally conscious business. Many people wonder if compostable materials are safe and suitable for human use, which they definitely are! 

Composting breaks down organic matter into nutrient-rich soil that can be safely used as fertilizer on your customer’s lawn or garden or sold back to the community in local farmer’s markets. Because compostable packaging material is made from organic matter, it is safe for humans to use. 

There are no harmful residues that can be left behind when the material decomposes and turns into nutrient-rich soil. Examples of food-safe uses of compostable packaging products include:

• Bagasse (sugar cane) food containers
• Cellulose fiber or paper-based food trays  
• Compostable films and laminates for flexible foods  

Compostable Packaging vs Biodegradable Packaging

While compostable packaging breaks down into fertilizer, biodegradable materials are those that will break down and return to nature — usually within a year or less. Both compostable and biodegradable packaging solutions are very environmentally friendly and designed to help protect the environment. Both options also help minimize the buildup of trash in landfills, which leads to a healthier, cleaner environment.

Learn More About Compostable Packaging