In October 2023, new, simpler recycling reforms were announced across England in a bid to simplify waste streams throughout the nation. These new rules will require all organisations and households to have separate food waste and recycling collections by the end of March 2025.

The primary objective of these reforms is to improve recycling efforts and reduce the volume of biodegradable waste and recyclable materials ending up in landfills. If effective, this will ultimately cut down on carbon emissions and help to protect the environment.

In this article, we’ll delve into the new, simpler recycling reforms and provide information on how they could impact your business. We’ll also give you some handy tips to help you transition seamlessly to a more sustainable and eco-friendly waste management system.

Why Are the Simpler Recycling Waste Reforms Happening?

Recycling rates plateaued at around 44% in 2022 and fell short of the 2020 target of 50%. These new reforms will be instrumental in helping the country meet the 65% recycling rate goal by 2035.

The key goal of the waste reforms is to make it simpler for people to recycle, and the new legislation will enable individuals to recycle the same materials no matter where they are. At present, some local authorities will not accept certain materials, which can make it confusing for people to know what can be recycled, and as a result, a lot of material ends up in landfill instead. 

This means that packaging can be designed, and businesses will have peace of mind that it can be recycled across the country. In turn, this should also see an increase in the amount of recycled materials in products and packaging, leading to growth in the UK’s recycling industry.

So, What’s Changing?

The simpler recycling reforms bring about several key changes in how waste is collected across the country, including:

1. Weekly Collections of Food Waste

Households across England can expect to have their food waste collected once per week by 2026. This will aim to reduce the amount of food being sent to landfills and reduce methane emissions produced by decomposing food waste.

Related: The Facts: Fast-Food Packaging Waste Statistics 2023

2. Fortnightly General Waste Collections

Residual (general) waste will be collected at least fortnightly. This will likely be more frequent in urbanised areas.

3. All Local Authorities to Collect the Same Recycling Materials 

There will be no more frantic searching on the internet, trying to decipher whether your coffee cup can be recycled in your local area. All authorities will collect the same recyclable materials, including glass, metal, plastic, paper, card, garden and food waste.

4. Recyclables to Go In One Bin 

From 2026, you can put all accepted dry, recyclable materials in the same bin and organic waste in another. This will reduce the number of recycling collections and avoid overcomplicating the collection process.

5. Crack Down on Unlawful Waste Disposal 

The changes will also see increased efforts to combat illegal waste operations. Measures that will be introduced include mandatory digital waste tracking, centralised reporting and a reformed licensing system for waste carriers, brokers and dealers. 

Currently, around 18% of waste in England is managed illegally, resulting in fly-tipping, which is incredibly harmful to the environment and local communities. These unscrupulous practices cost a whopping £1 billion a year for England to tackle.

When Will the Simpler Waste Reforms Happen?

There are three main dates to be aware of: 

– 31 March 2025: core recycling to be collected from businesses, restaurants, schools and hospitals
– 31 March 2026: local authorities to begin weekly food waste collections and core recycling collections for households
– 31 March 2027: Plastic, film and flexible plastic collections will be implemented.

Businesses with less than ten full-time employees will have until 31 March 2027 to meet requirements. 

What Do These Changes Mean for Takeaway Businesses?

Takeaway businesses will be expected to follow the same arrangements as households regarding recycling. There will also be a legal requirement to have a separate recycling stream for food waste.

If you’re not doing so already, you’ll need to separate the following recyclable materials from your general waste: 

– Glass: bottles and jars 
– Metal: cans and tins
– Plastics: food containers and bottles
– Paper: newspapers and envelopes
– Cardboard: boxes and packaging
– Food waste: leftovers or waste.

Will I Need Extra Bins?

Your business will need a food bin, refuse bin and recycling bin. Don’t worry. You won’t require a bin for each recycling stream as you can put all dry, recyclable materials in one bin to make things easier for you, your customers and waste collection. 

How Can My Takeaway Business Prepare?

Although the arrangements don’t need to be in place until 31 March 2025, you should get ahead of the curve and set up your separate recycling streams now. You’ll also need to arrange collections and recycling of all food waste and recyclables from licensed waste carriers.

Switching your takeaway packaging to completely recyclable materials will also make it much easier for you and your customers to dispose of your packaging responsibly. We stock a range of cold and hot food containers that can easily be popped into recycling bins, such as kraftware, recyclable bowls and lids and pizza boxes. 

Related: Sustainable Fast Food Packaging: A Guide for Takeaway Food Businesses

Your business will align with the new regulatory requirements by setting up separate recycling streams, arranging collections from licensed waste carriers and switching to completely recyclable packaging. Not only this, but you’ll also be contributing to the larger goal of protecting the planet and helping to usher in an era of positive environmental change.

Looking for planet-positive branded packaging that showcases your brand without harming the environment? Get a free quote today and show off a sustainable style that doesn’t cost the earth.

The government has banned single-use plastic packaging as of October 2023. These changes directly impact the food service industry — read on to find out if your business is affected.

You’re no longer allowed to use polystyrene food packaging and plastic cutlery. Instead, you are required to use eco-friendly alternatives. Fortunately, plenty of sustainable options are available, like bagasse clamshell food containers and biodegradable cutlery. 

Let’s get started!

Related: What Is Food-Grade Packaging?

Which Food Packaging Products Are Banned in the UK? 

Single-use plastic packaging has been mass-produced for decades. Numerous industries have heavily relied upon it since it’s a surprisingly durable and cost-effective material.

While single-use packaging is readily disposable, it isn’t biodegradable, nor are some forms of plastic packaging recyclable. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in the food service sector, where plastic has long outstayed its welcome. 

Nowadays, single-use food packaging is a significant polluter of the world’s oceans. Over the last decade, the UK government has gradually introduced restrictions on single-use plastic, from the plastic bag tax to the plastic packaging tax (PPT) and now with the single-use plastic ban.

The plastic bag tax was a success, with plastic bag usage among major retailers dropping by 97%. The government continues introducing measures, and the new ban on single-use plastic packaging is just the next step. If you’re wondering what kinds of single-use food packaging are now banned, here’s an overview: 

Related: Has the UK Plastic Bag Charge Worked? An Update for 2022

The single-use plastic ban applies to items entirely made from plastic and only partially, such as those with a plastic liner.

Why Is the UK Single-Use Plastic Ban Coming into Force?

The single-use plastic packaging ban is part of environment-based government initiatives to eliminate avoidable plastic waste.

When discarded incorrectly, single-use plastics damage marine environments and cost local authorities in clean-up bills — litter isn’t just bad for local wildlife, it’s an eyesore. Every year, hundreds of animals and birds suffer from plastic entanglement or ingestion, and microplastics (tiny plastic particles) have even been discovered in human blood. 

Although the potential harm of microplastics on the human body is still being investigated, research has shown microplastics can cause damage to human cells. We also know that phthalate exposure can cause early death from heart disease in older people. Phthalates are often found in cosmetics, fast food and plastic packaging. 

The environment and health aren’t the only factors impacted by plastic waste. Richer countries are exporting their plastic waste abroad to other countries with poor waste management practices. In fact, the UK counts exported waste as “recycled” — even if it wasn’t. 

There are many reasons single-use plastic needs to be banned to prevent it from circulating in our ecosystems and bodies forever. Luckily, Takeaway Packaging has the perfect alternatives.

Related: Phthalates: The Most Dangerous Problem with Plastic Food Packaging

Check out sustainably sourced and eco-friendly food packaging.

Eco-Friendly Packaging Alternatives to Banned Items

Disposable food packaging is out, and sustainable packaging is in. But remember, your food packaging standards need to be up to scratch. Food grade means that you comply with Food Standard Agency (FSA) regulations and ensure the takeaway containers you use are safe for food products. 

Let’s take a look at some sustainable food-safe alternatives to disposable food packaging. 

Take a look at our eco-friendly bowls and Kraft food packaging for soups and salads to replace your polystyrene bowls and trays.

Related: The Best Packaging Materials for Takeaway Food and Drinks 

The Benefits of Disposable Food Packaging Alternatives

Opting for sustainable packaging has other benefits besides complying with the ban on single-use plastics. 

Consumers are consciously more eco-friendly in their purchasing decisions. Providing your consumers with sustainable packaging improves your brand image, which in turn can drive sales. Of course, there are financial savings too, like avoiding the plastic packaging tax by buying packaging made from more than 30% recycled contents. There aren’t any harmful chemicals in our natural packaging either, compared to plastic take-out containers.

Bagasse, PLA and Kraft board are better than plastic and polystyrene packaging in many ways, including heat retention and resistance to grease. Choosing products like our Kraft-lined pizza and meal boxes means your customers can recycle them easily as they’re moisture and grease-resistant.

Related: Can You Recycle Greasy Pizza Boxes? 

Discover more of our safe and sustainable packaging in our online shop

Buying Takeaway Food Packaging Alternatives Online

At Takeaway Packaging, we produce environmentally friendly, high-quality packaging. We’re officially carbon-neutral, which means we offset all the carbon emissions we might make through our processes. Collaborate with us for a planet-positive future and switch from single-use to sustainable today.

Buy eco-friendly food packaging from our online shop or get in touch for a free design quote in less than 48 hours.

It’s no secret that we’re a nation of curry lovers. The extensive menus of Indian restaurants offer something for everyone, from mild kormas to spicy vindaloos, and curry is a consistent pick for family takeout nights across the country. 

In fact, according to a Just Eat survey in 2022, Indian food takeaway is the second top-rated cuisine in the UK (second only to Italian, but who can compete with pizza?). 

Over 12,000 Indian restaurants serve the nation each week, using a huge amount of hot food containers. This poses an important question for businesses and consumers: What is the best packaging for Indian food?

Related: Sustainable Noodle & Rice Packaging for East Asian Food

Getting Started with Indian Food Packaging 

Indian food is traditionally highly sustainable. The culture focuses on eating locally grown, seasonal produce and using available resources to ensure waste is kept to a minimum. Innovative practices are used, such as sun drying and storing food in salt, sugar, lemon solution, or oil to store perishables and keep them safe for consumption all year round. 

On top of all this, Indian communities are highly proactive with recycling and using leftover food, whether that’s using leftovers for another meal or upcycling it into different products. 

With this in mind, it’s only natural that Indian takeaway food packaging should be as eco-friendly as possible and follow in the same footsteps. 

Challenges in Packaging for Indian Food

Whether settling down to enjoy a tikka masala in front of the TV for a night of must-see viewing or enjoying street food samosas while out on the town, the packaging that holds these feasts of flavours needs to be up to the task. 

Several things make a successful Indian food packaging experience — all of which require innovative solutions: 

1. Heat Retention

This is potentially one of the biggest challenges when packaging up takeaway Indian food. Many dishes are best enjoyed hot, allowing the complex flavours and textures to be experienced in their entirety. 

2. Preventing Leaks

There’s nothing worse than getting your takeaway curry and discovering that half of the contents have leaked to the exterior paper bag or food carrier. Not only does this result in a lot of mess, but there’s also a lot of product waste.

3. Visual Appeal

Many curry packaging options are plain, opting for plastic containers or tin foil, leaving limited room for personalisation or presentation. At Takeaway Packaging, we believe what’s on the outside should reflect the inside. Your customers should be excited to dig in before they’ve popped the lid.

4. Sustainability

With sustainable solutions becoming more commonplace, the environmental impact of Indian food packaging is a crucial consideration. 

5. Future-proofing and Scalability

Legislation is cracking down on single-use plastic, meaning that plant-based packaging alternatives are the future. By switching to biodegradable and fully recyclable options now, you’ll be getting ahead of the curve while also taking steps to protect the environment at the same time.

Is Aluminium Foil Good for Curry Packaging?

Aluminium foil containers are one of the most popular options for Indian food packaging. This is because they’re highly effective at retaining heat as they form an excellent barrier to outside air. They start losing heat between 30-40 minutes, but this is around the average delivery time for companies such as Just Eat and Deliveroo. 

Theoretically, aluminium should be a sustainable solution since the material can be endlessly recycled. It doesn’t degrade through the recycling loop, and around 75% of all aluminium ever made is still somewhere in the world. 

So what’s the problem? 

For one, aluminium takes a lot of electricity to make. It’s created by applying mechanical air pressure to force foil into shape using the die and cavity method. There’s lots of energy required, and as a result, it can be quite expensive to buy.

The other issue is that people often don’t dispose of it properly. Around 22% of UK adults do not recycle aluminium, which is a sizable amount unnecessarily ending up in landfill. While some people are simply popping it into the bin as they don’t know it should be recycled, certain local authorities still don’t accept aluminium in their recycling schemes. 

In instances where it is recycled, often it’s not washed properly, and food debris is still present, which can contaminate other recyclables. 

As aluminium isn’t a biodegradable material, more sustainable solutions are needed to make it easier for businesses and consumers to dispose of waste in an eco-friendly manner.

Sustainable Packaging Solutions for Indian Food

Since aluminium foil has plenty of issues that need to be addressed, you’ll likely be wondering if any more suitable, sustainable packaging solutions are available. 

You’ll be delighted to know that your eco-friendly packaging experts are here to save the day. We’ve got plenty of options for leak-free curry packaging that’ll keep food piping hot until it’s time to dig in:

	Biodegradable Bowls and Lids Our selection of eco bowls and lids is an excellent choice for transporting curry. Boasting Ingeo™ PLA linings that are biodegradable, these bowls are leak-proof, and the added lids mean that they can be easily popped into a food carrier. Fully compostable, recyclable and biodegradable, your customers will have plenty of ways to dispose of your packaging responsibly.
	Bagasse BePulp Food Containers Bagasse is made from sugar cane residue, which is an excellent renewable resource. Available in various shapes and sizes, including square (perfect for rice) and oval (great for curries), these are a fantastic sustainable alternative to plastic and tin foil.
	Bagasse Anti-Leak Containers If you’re after reliable packaging to hold curries with no risk of leakage, our Bagasse anti-leak containers are just what you need. The natural sugarcane fibre pulp base and innovative anti-leak lids are similar in performance to plastic due to their rigidity and excellent closing performance.  Want proof that your curries are in safe hands? Check out the leak test.
	Fastpac Reusable Containers Although made from plastic, Fastpac reusable containers can be used time and time again. Made from 30% organically sourced mineral talc, the containers can be 100% recycled at the end of their life, but since they’re dishwasher and microwave-safe, there will be a lot of use in them first!

Packaging Best Practices for Indian Takeaway Packaging

It can be challenging for Indian restaurant owners to find a safe and reliable solution for their packaging while staying true to cultural beliefs of sustainability. On top of all this, the important points of functionality and affordability should also be considered. 

Here are a few best practices for packaging to think about:

• Size
• Type
• Materials
• Disposal.

Size

Indian food encompasses a wide variety of dishes. Curries will require different packaging to rice and samosas, so you’ll need to consider quantities, sizes and shapes and how it will work with every food item you offer. 

Type

With so many types of food packaging available, it’s essential to get the right fit for the food you offer. You’ll likely sell lots of different kinds of curries, sundries and appetisers, so you’ll need a variety of packaging to provide customers with a memorable experience. 

We offer a wide range of takeaway packaging that’s cost-effective, highly versatile and can be used with hot and cold foods. Our eco-friendly deli bowls are perfect for fresh salads and chutneys, while our Kraft food packaging is excellent for samosas and onion bhajis. 

Materials

Ensure you’re picking the right materials that align with your sustainability goals. If you’re trying to appeal to more eco-conscious customers, biodegradable, compostable and recyclable options are all fantastic options. 

Where it may be difficult to change materials, especially considering tin foil has been used successfully for a long time, sustainable doesn’t mean non-functional. Our offering of hot food containers is incredible at retaining heat, preventing leaks and can even make your food look more visually appealing. What’s there to lose?

Disposal

Once customers have enjoyed their takeaway, food waste should always be disposed of responsibly. By opting for biodegradable, compostable or recyclable packaging, you’ll be giving them a helping hand to be more environmentally conscious while reducing your business’s carbon footprint.

Order Your Indian Food Packaging with Takeaway Packaging!

At Takeaway Packaging, we’re experts in helping food service businesses — including Indian restaurant owners — find packaging that complements their culinary creations and meets their sustainability goals. We’re proud to offer innovative packaging solutions that help improve our world, one curry at a time.

Get a FREE quote for branded packaging from our team today. Let us bring your brand to life while finding the best packaging for your curries!

Kebabs are a staple of the food service industry worldwide. In the bustling world of culinary delights, few takeaway foods are as universally loved and culturally diverse as kebabs.

Around 20,000 kebab shops in the UK serve millions of customers every week. That’s a lot of food and plenty of takeaway boxes and bags, too, so what makes the packaging for kebabs? 

With changing legislation around plastic-based packaging, let’s look at some eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Related: A Complete Guide to Burger Packaging

Getting Started with Kebab Packaging 

The food service industry is as competitive as ever (just check out the Kebab Awards 2023). Sustainability is a growing focus within the sector as restaurants, kebab houses, stalls, and shops try to capture the imagination of conscious consumers.

The government has taken this a step further, and from 1st October 2023, polystyrene containers are banned in England, including trays, plates, clamshell containers and plastic cutlery. 

The lure of convenience that previously led to traditional packaging choices has been replaced by the necessity for eco-friendly packaging for businesses operating in the industry.

Challenges in Packaging for Kebabs

The sizzle of kebabs on a grill can delight everyone from late-night revellers to diehard food enthusiasts, but the harmony of flavours and textures can only be fully appreciated if the packaging does these delectable delights justice.

Packaging for kebabs may seem straightforward, but it presents a medley of challenges that demand attention and innovation:

1. Heat Retention

Kebabs are best enjoyed piping hot. Packaging must retain the heat to keep kebabs fresh and delicious in quick-service and food-for-delivery settings. 

2. Preventing Leaks

Juicy meats, succulent vegetables, and flavourful marinades make kebabs delectable but often lead to the risk of leakage. This can compromise both the presentation and the convenience of kebabs.

3. Visual Appeal

Kebabs are a feast for the eyes as much as they are for the palate. Packaging should enhance the presentation, displaying the glorious aspects of a chicken shish or lamb skewer, tantalising customers before the first bite.

4. Sustainability 

The environmental impact of kebab packaging is a crucial consideration, especially since traditional packaging materials like polystyrene trays won’t be available from October 2023. 

5. Future-proofing and Scalability

Plastic-based packaging contributes to non-biodegradable waste and pollution, so biodegradable and plant-based packaging alternatives will be a mainstay, protecting your business from future changes in legislation and protecting the environment.

Discover more eco-friendly packaging in our online shop.

Is Aluminium Foil Good for Wrapping Kebabs?

While foil-wrapping kebabs might seem cost-effective and convenient, it’s less practical than using greaseproof paper or a clamshell container. Despite its heat retention properties, aluminium foil comes with some drawbacks.

Aluminium is recyclable, but it’s often spoiled when used to wrap food, so its recyclable potential goes to waste. It’s non-biodegradable, too, so when it’s sent to landfill sites, it stays there for up to hundreds of years. Plus, the production of the metal is environmentally taxing, demanding substantial energy and creating pollution.

From a presentation perspective, it does nothing to enhance the visual appeal of kebabs (or other food items like burgers and burritos). Foil wrapping isn’t practical for the customer, impacting the overall dining experience.

Sustainable Packaging Solutions for Kebabs

Since polystyrene packaging isn’t a long-term option for serving kebabs, and foil wrapping isn’t a great idea, what are some viable and sustainable packaging solutions? 

Franchise owners, small businesses and food entrepreneurs can rejoice as we’ve got several eco-friendly packaging options that are even better than their plastic-based predecessors:

	Bagasse Containers Derived from sugarcane pulp, bagasse containers have impressive heat resistance. They’re 100% commercially and domestically compostable and offer identical performance to polystyrene clamshells, only without the traditional environmental drawbacks of plastic-based packaging. We stock bagasse compartment containers for individual orders and compartment meal boxes for platters and sharing dishes.
	Printed Paper Bags For lighter orders, paper bags offer a convenient solution for quick-service restaurants where efficiency is key. Simply by printing your brand name or artwork on your packaging, you can transform the customer experience and make your food the envy of your rivals.  We strictly use water and vegetable-based inks to print our packaging so that it’s 100% safe for use with food.  We also stock paper carrier bags in various sizes and styles for an eco-friendly takeaway experience.
	Kraft Food Packaging Kraft packaging is naturally renewable and offers versatility for any food service business. It has excellent oil and grease resistance thanks to the clever manufacturing process — natural fibres are tightly woven together to create tear-proof packaging. Kraft trays can be used to serve skewers and sides, while food-grade pizza boxes are an excellent eco-friendly choice for sharing platters. It’s also 100% recyclable, compostable and biodegradable.
	Greaseproof Paper Greaseproof paper is impermeable to oil, grease and moisture, making it a great addition to other packaging items like boxes and trays. It can also be used to wrap doner or shish kebabs for over-the-counter service.  Our greaseproof paper is fully recyclable and made without a silicone coating. Instead, our greaseproof paper is made from tightly compacted, 100% virgin pulp fibres and engineered with a specialised oil protection system, keeping it compostable and biodegradable. Opt for custom printed greaseproof paper to show off your logo, artwork and branding!
	Biodegradable Cutlery The single-use plastic ban covers all kinds of packaging, including disposable cutlery. Fortunately, we’ve got several plastic-free options available to help you give your customers everything they need to enjoy their kebabs, sides and desserts. Wooden cutlery and biodegradable cutlery are both compostable and biodegradable since they’re made from natural resources. They’re much more sturdy than plastic cutlery, too, which has a habit of breaking right when your customers need it the most.

Packaging Best Practices: Kebab Boxes, Bags and More

It can be difficult for kebab shop owners, restaurants, and food stall managers to strike a delicate balance of functionality, sustainability and affordability. Often, it comes down to the needs of each business, but here are a few best practices for packaging consider:

• Size
• Type
• Materials
• Disposal.

Size

Different kebab varieties have unique characteristics. Meat skewers and shish kebabs will need different packaging to mixed platters and salads, so take into account the function of the packaging and how it will preserve the qualities of each food item on your menu. 

Minimising packaging waste should always be a priority — not just to protect the environment but also to save on packaging costs. 

Type

If your business sells many different food items, you need a variety of packaging to give your customers a memorable experience for all the right reasons. But you don’t have to spend a lot to get the packaging you need. We offer packaging that’s versatile and suitable for use with hot and cold food.

For example, disposable pots and bowls are ideal for hot and cold sides, fresh salads and sauces, while our Kraft food packaging is ideal for kebabs, skewers and other mains — even desserts!

Materials

Choose packaging materials that align with your sustainability goals. Biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable options are great for helping your business appeal to eco-conscious customers. 

Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing functionality. Bagasse clamshell packaging retains heat, prevents leaks, and makes your food products visually appealing. 

Disposal

Once your packaging has been used, it should be disposed of responsibly. You can help your customers do this by selecting packaging that’s easy to dispose of without harming the environment. 

Unfortunately, fast food packaging waste is commonly littered. Engage your customers and show them where bins and waste receptacles are to minimise irresponsible behaviours.

Order Your Kebab Packaging with Takeaway Packaging!

At Takeaway Packaging, we help food service businesses — including kebab shop owners and restaurateurs — find packaging that complements their culinary creations and sustainability aspirations. We supply innovative packaging products that offer a pathway towards a greener future, one takeaway kebab at a time.

Get a FREE quote for branded packaging from our team today. Let us help you find the best packaging for your kebabs!

Plastic has been used for food and drink packaging for decades. Pre-packed and freshly prepared takeaway food is often served in plastic packaging to preserve the contents, but is plastic packaging the best option for food?

Since the introduction of the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) — affecting all packaging that doesn’t contain at least 30% materials — food service businesses have been forced to rethink their packaging strategies to avoid the rising cost of plastic packaging.

While the tax provides a clear incentive for manufacturers and importers to use more recycled plastic, it’s raising the price of plastic packaging for businesses. 

With plenty of alternatives available, let’s find out if your business could save money with eco-friendly food packaging instead.

Related: Which Single-Use Food Packaging Items Are Banned in the UK? 

Which Types of Plastic Are Used for Food Packaging?

Several different kinds of plastic are used to package fresh and pre-packed food items. Each has a Resin Identification Code (RIC) that identifies the type of plastic resin the packaging is made from:

1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Typically used for drinks bottles, ready meal containers and produce trays, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, or PETE) is one of the most popular thermoplastics used for food and beverage packaging. 

Recyclable? Yes

2. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) 

HDPE is a rigid plastic that has higher strength and durability than LDPE. It’s often used for packaging products that require greater protection, such as plastic milk bottles and washing detergent.

Recyclable? Yes

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC is a thermoplastic that has various applications, as it can be manufactured to be flexible or rigid. Most cling film is made from PVC, but it’s infrequently used for food packaging as PVC cannot be recycled at home. 

Recyclable? No

4. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)

LDPE is a lightweight and flexible plastic that’s most commonly used to package items like bread, frozen foods, and fresh produce. It provides a moisture barrier and helps preserve food on the shelves of shops and supermarkets.

Recyclable? Yes

5. Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a rigid plastic that’s commonly used for hot and cold food packaging, including yoghurt pots and takeaway containers. However, many kinds of plastic takeaway containers aren’t safe for use with hot food. 

Recyclable? Yes

6. Polystyrene (PS)

Polystyrene has good insulation properties, making it a popular choice for fast food outlets for packaging items requiring temperature control. It’s most commonly clamshell containers used to serve fast food items, but it’s being banned from October 2023 due to the negative impact it has on the environment.

Recyclable? No

7. Other Plastics

Some other plastics can’t be categorised under any other resin identification codes, but they are uncommonly used with food products. If you come across packaging with this number, it probably isn’t recyclable.

Recyclable? No

What Are The Safest Plastics for Food and Beverages?

Health, safety and hygiene will always be a priority for businesses in the food service sector. Knowing which plastics to use with your food and drinks can keep your customers safe, but it all depends on how the packaging is used.

For example, customers need to know if it’s possible to reuse plastic takeaway containers safely and reheat last night’s takeaway. Still, much of this information isn’t made available at the point of sale.

Most of the plastics mentioned above are technically considered “food grade”, but the only true food-safe packaging is made from natural, biodegradable materials that won’t impact the health of your customers or harm the environment.

A recent study found that we ingest thousands of tiny plastic particles yearly. These take the form of microplastics that are invisible to the naked eye. Findings like these further indicate that we need alternatives to plastic packaging for our food and beverages to avoid causing your customers harm, even if we had the best intentions with your packaging selection.

Bioplastics and Their Use in Takeaway Packaging 

The safest plastics for food and drinks are bioplastics. Unlike non-biodegradable plastics, bioplastics like polylactic acid (PLA) are derived from plants like the by-products of sugarcane harvesting. They are naturally biodegradable and don’t have any of the typical environmental drawbacks of traditional oil-based plastics.

As eco-friendly packaging experts, we supply bioplastic packaging for various applications:

Eco-Friendly Takeaway Boxes and Trays

PLA makes an effective, eco-friendly lining for takeaway boxes and trays. It can greatly improve moisture, oil and grease resistance where needed most. Not only does this improve recycling rates, but it also makes the packaging 100% biodegradable, which is a huge plus considering the PE-lined trays would need to be recycled or end up in landfill. 

PLA can also be used to create transparent windows for your packaging when you want to show off your food items. Just check out our salad boxes and sandwich bags.

Compostable Coffee Cups

Lining coffee cups with PLA helps prevent leaks while retaining heat, keeping your customers’ warm beverages hot and fresh. You can create an awesome, plastic-free experience for your customers with biodegradable coffee cup lids. Once they’ve been used, PLA-lined cups can be composted domestically or commercially, while PE-lined coffee cups can easily be recycled. All are available in a range of sizes and styles.

Ice Cream Tubs, Soup Pots and Bowls

We’ve created a range of tubs, pots and bowls lined with PLA to increase moisture resistance, allowing you to serve hot and cold food items without worrying about leaving your customers in a sticky mess. Pair these with our biodegradable cutlery and napkins (also made from bioplastics) for a totally green takeaway experience. 

Interest in branded packaging? We can custom print your boxes, bags, cups and containers! Get a FREE quote in just 48 hours.

Is Plastic Packaging Bad for The Environment?

Plastic packaging is everywhere, but it comes with a high environmental cost. Plastic packaging is Europe’s largest single source of plastic waste, and food and beverage packaging accounts for 40% of the total.

As useful and as cost-effective as it may be, plastic packaging waste poses several challenges for businesses in food service when it comes to sustainability:

Plastic Packaging Isn’t Biodegradable

Plastic packaging can take centuries to decompose. This creates a huge amount of irremovable landfill waste that will be around long after the packaging has served its purpose. For this reason alone, biodegradable packaging makes much more sense if it’s intended for single-use.

Pollution and Plastic Waste

Plastic always finds a way into the natural environment, no matter how carefully it’s disposed of. Not only does this contribute to litter in city centres and microplastics on beaches, but it also creates a huge amount of pollution in manufacturing. 

Bans on Single-Use Packaging

As of October 2023, single-use plastic packaging products will be banned, including plastic-based plates, bowls, trays, containers, cutlery and more. Swapping out plastic packaging makes good business sense to avoid being caught out by the changes in legislation.

Understanding the environmental impact of plastic packaging is crucial for food service businesses to make informed choices about sustainable packaging alternatives.

Featured: Completely plastic-free packaging for BAOHAUS

What Are the Alternatives to Plastic Packaging? 

If you’re not keen on plastic food packaging, plenty of sustainable alternatives exist. Each has its advantages, but all can be used to help protect your customers and the planet:

Cardboard: Made with at least 80% recycled materials, our cardboard packaging is biodegradable, compostable and recyclable. Some products, like our food-grade pizza boxes, feature a greaseproof and oil-resistant Kraft paper lining — perfect for cheesy pizzas!

Paper: Also made from totally natural and sustainable resources, it makes the perfect choice for takeaway bags. While the use of plastic bags is in steep decline, paper bags make a perfect eco-friendly alternative for takeaways and deliveries.

Bioplastics: A much greener alternative to regular plastic, bioplastics are made from plant-based materials (PLA) that degrade naturally over time. Bioplastics are particularly useful for hot and cold drink containers, as they can be used as biodegradable coffee cup lids or to line the inside of paper beverage containers.

Glass: While suitable for home use, glass isn’t a great option for takeaways for obvious reasons. It’s an excellent option for storing food in your fridge or cold drinks if your customers want to avoid using plastic at home or preserve last night’s takeaway food.

Bagasse: Made from the dry, fibrous pulp that’s produced after crushing sugarcane to extract its juices, Bagasse is fantastic for hot and cold food containers. It’s perfect for soups and oily dishes as the densely-compacted fibres are non-absorbent and will help your food stay fresh and delicious.

Discover Plastic-Free Packaging Alternatives with Us!

There are loads of alternatives to plastic packaging available. Each can help you improve your customers’ experience, hit sustainability goals and help protect the environment with each of your takeaways without compromising on quality or performance. If you’re interested in switching to more sustainable packaging, we’re here to help.

Visit our online shop to discover sustainable takeaway packaging for all kinds of food and drink products.

From city centres to country lanes, you’ve undoubtedly come across your fair share of litter. In the past few years, littering has become such a problem that there will be much heavier fines for litter, graffiti and fly-tipping. 

If you’re caught littering, you could be fined up to £500 under the proposed changes by the government — that’s 233% more than the previous fixed penalty.

Unsightly images of littered locations typically feature fast-food packaging, drinks cans and plastic bottles as the main culprits. These kinds of issues — and this kind of waste — have been a prevalent problem for years. Plastic litter started appearing in our oceans and ecosystems back in the 1960s, just as plastic started to be mass-produced.

Fast-food restaurants and outlets produce a tremendous amount of packaging waste, from disposable cups and food containers to all kinds of bags and carriers.

But how bad is the food packaging waste problem, and what are the latest fast-food packaging waste statistics in 2023?

Fast-Food Packaging Waste Facts

In the UK, it’s estimated that 2.2 million tonnes of plastic packaging enter the consumer market every year. In 2019, a survey found that the UK generated around 11 billion items of packaging waste in a year. A study of 1,200 workers found that the average lunch order had four packaged items, including sandwiches, crisps and snacks.

You might think that four individually wrapped food items don’t mean much in the grand scheme of things, but let’s look at the bigger picture. Think about the many thousands of sandwich bags that need to be disposed of in a week. 

Over a week, these people could produce 20 separate items of non-recyclable packaging waste. That average might easily equate to 80 or more missed opportunities to reuse or recycle food packaging in a month.

This means that the average person who bought their lunch every day from a supermarket, fast-food outlet or other takeaway services could generate nearly 1000 separate pieces of rubbish per year. The worst part? Around 46% of plastic packaging is collected for recycling, and much of it isn’t recyclable. 

What Are Fast-Food Companies Doing about Packaging Waste?

Those numbers leave a bad taste in your mouth, so what are fast-food businesses doing about the problem? Surely they’re the ones who should be held accountable for producing unrecyclable, non-biodegradable waste? 

The internationally recognised fast-food chain McDonald’s produces about three tonnes of packaging waste every minute, almost two million tonnes of packaging waste a year. That’s a lot of rubbish, so what are fast-food companies doing to mitigate this?

Featured: Eco-Friendly Packaging for SoBe Burger

How Are Fast-Food Businesses Tackling Packaging Waste?

It’s clear that businesses have a significant environmental problem on their hands. Some companies are even accused of intentionally treating their packaging with harmful chemicals, so you might be asking yourself, “are fast-food companies doing enough to solve the packaging waste problem?”

Let’s take a look at the food packaging waste statistics for 2023:

McDonald’s

McDonald’s latest statement about its packaging and waste management processes is hopeful, stating that the company aims to “source 100% of our guest packaging from renewable, recycled or certified sources by 2025”.

Starbucks 

McDonalds is joined by Starbucks in investing $10 million into the NextGen Consortium. This project aims to bring leading brands, manufacturers and industry experts together to reduce food service packaging waste. As part of Starbucks’ Planet Positive commitment, they aim to: “create a cultural movement towards reusables by giving customers easy access to a personal or Starbucks-provided reusable cup for every visit”. 

Burger King

Other fast-food restaurants are also trying to tackle the environmental issues that fast-food packaging creates. Burger King recently became the first UK fast-food company to start trialling reusable and returnable fast-food packaging. This is part of their “Burger King for Good” plan, where they aim to source all their timber and paper used for food packaging from responsibly managed forests.

KFC

Looking “Behind the Bucket”, KFC’s key environmental goal is to become a fully circular zero-waste business by 2035. If that wasn’t ambitious enough, the fast-food chain is aiming to become a net zero-carbon business by 2040 or sooner. 

Further afield, KFC Singapore ran a six-month pilot program in which all biodegradable fast-food packaging and food scraps were converted into plant fertiliser. This was only made possible using biodegradable packaging made using a mixture of paper and corn or sugarcane fibres, much like our bagasse packaging.

Subway

The brand behind the iconic “Eat Fresh” slogan is also making headway with its packaging. To reduce packaging waste, the brand is set to make 100% of its packaging recyclable, compostable or biodegradable. Subway’s sustainability targets also aim to increase recycled content in paper and plastic packaging, as well as working to increase recycling rates in-restaurant and for their takeaway delivery services.

Domino’s 

Domino’s wants to achieve zero waste to landfill, but there’s a longstanding debate around pizza packaging and whether you can recycle pizza boxes. 

Domino’s says you can recycle their pizza packaging at home, while some councils have banned greasy food boxes for recycling, stating that excess grease, oil and moisture make the packaging impossible to process effectively.

The pizza chain responded, stating that their pizza boxes are 100% recyclable and made from 70% recycled material, with the remaining 30% Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) assured. But since not all recycling facilities can recycle their packaging, they recommend “checking with your local council for details”.

Are Fast-Food Brands Doing Enough?

Some fast-food companies are taking action in line with the rise in eco-consciousness amongst consumers and brands in the last few years. But as the food-on-the-go market continues to rise, more waste is being produced than ever before. 

So what can other businesses do to counteract the harm of an ever-growing market of convenience-hungry consumers?

Related: Can You Recycle or Reuse Plastic Takeaway Containers? 

Featured: Plastic-free Packaging for BAO HAUS

Eco-friendly Packaging Products and Food Waste Reduction

When dealing with a problem of such magnitude, it’s important to remember that any positive change can make a sizable difference to your business, customers and community.

You’ve probably heard that environmentally friendly packaging can effectively reduce fast-food packaging waste, but how?

Recyclable, recycled, biodegradable and compostable packaging has numerous advantages. They can: 

1) Reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste produced by businesses and consumers, decreasing the number of waste products in landfills.

2) Put more emphasis on sustainability and sustainable culture, encouraging recycling and using renewable resources to create packaging.

3) Help businesses win more environmentally conscious customers, allowing them to diversify their markets and appeal to wider audiences.

4) Be more aesthetically pleasing and often more practical than non-sustainable counterparts.

5) Be more cost-effective, reducing the financial burden of the Plastic Packaging Tax. 

Eco-friendly packaging directly tackles the significant environmental issues caused by single-use plastic packaging. Like those often used in the food service industry, plastic containers have low recyclability and reusability. Still, the good news is that alternatives are widely available, and more innovative and eco-friendly solutions are always in development.

What Does the Future of Fast-Food Packaging Look Like?

The future of fast-food packaging looks promising. Influential global brands are reducing packaging waste and adopting sustainable packaging.

A few trends are set to come into play in 2023 and beyond:

1. Minimising Usage of Plastic Packaging

Plastic packaging has a few undeniably useful properties, but it should be used sparingly as takeaway packaging. For the most part, you can replace plastic packaging with plastic-free alternatives, but packaging like FastPac containers offer some great benefits. They’re leakproof, microwavable and either reusable or recyclable, making them ideal for hot and cold food items.

2. More Biodegradable Single-Use Packaging

Single-use packaging offers unparalleled convenience for businesses and consumers, but it can be problematic if it’s made of non-biodegradable materials. Not all consumers can dispose of their packaging in a way that benefits the environment, even if it’s designed to be recyclable. 

This has naturally led to increased organic plant-based packaging that can be disposed of in general waste with minimal environmental impact compared to plastic-based packaging products like polystyrene.

3. Closing the Loop with Reusable Packaging

Reusable packaging has seen a significant uplift in recent years. Several improvements have been made in packaging materials and the management and logistics of reusable packaging, making it more accessible to consumers and brands. Metal and glass are sturdy materials that can easily be cleaned or recycled, allowing consumers to return their packaging to stores or centres for reuse.

Examples of Sustainable Packaging for Fast Food

Sustainable packaging is readily available for eco-conscious businesses in the food service industry to take advantage of:

	Bagasse Is Better than Polystyrene You can switch out your polystyrene packaging for compostable bagasse clamshell containers, a 100% plastic-free alternative. This packaging keeps hot or cold food fresh for longer and is made from the by-product of bagasse sugarcane, Unlike their polystyrene counterparts, these clamshells contain natural fibres that don’t absorb oil and water. Plus, Bagasse sugarcane is an example of a renewable, natural material that can be composted straight after use. We think that’s a big win for the environment.
	Bioplastic Cups Beat Traditional Plastic Cups For cold drinks, traditional plastic cups can easily be substituted with clear bioplastic cups made from PLA (polylactic acid. This natural compound will degrade naturally over a much shorter time than regular plastic. These handy cups are manufactured using plants and not fossil fuels. As a result, they’re far better for the environment without compromising functionality.
	Alternatives to Plastic Cutlery and Accessories The sky’s the limit with eco-friendly packaging accessories. You can swap out plastic cutlery for sustainable cutlery and napkins made from naturally eco-friendly materials, from birchwood to avocado seeds. With so many exciting developments and innovations already in the works, we’re excited to move towards a greener future for takeaway packaging. Related: Recyclable, Compostable or Biodegradable Food Packaging: What’s the Difference?

Changing the World, One Takeaway at a Time

What can you do right now if you’re an eco-conscious fast-food service to turn the tide on fast-food packaging waste? Investing in eco-friendly packaging products like food-grade pizza boxes or biodegradable Kraftware is an excellent place to start. Global fast-food giants are beginning to follow suit, but a healthy planet is a shared responsibility between businesses of all sizes and their consumers.

You can reduce your carbon footprint with eco-friendly products like those previously mentioned, and you’ll also be helping society as a whole to pay more attention to the products they buy and how they dispose of their packaging. 

Check out our range of eco-friendly packaging products and positively impact the environment with your takeaways. Get in touch for a FREE branded packaging quote in just 48 hours.

Are you often left wondering what items can be recycled or what should go in the recycling bin? Sometimes it’s greasy pizza boxes. Other times it’s a mystery plastic takeaway container. Another common question frequently arises, “Can you recycle polystyrene food containers?” With the increasing focus on environmental sustainability, proper waste management and the introduction of government bans on single-use takeaway packaging, your business must get clued up on the recycling potential of different food packaging materials. In this blog post, we will shed light on the recycling possibilities of different types of plastic containers and other food containers, providing you with valuable insights to make informed decisions about your food packaging. So, let’s have a look at popular plastic takeaway containers to show you the differences between eco-friendly takeaway packaging and less sustainable options. 

Related: Which Single-Use Food Packaging Items Are Banned in the UK?

Common Plastic Takeaway Containers

Every year, 2.2 million tonnes of plastic packaging enters the consumer market, one of the most significant contributors being single-use takeaway food and drink packaging. Plastic takeaway containers are still an easy, low-cost option for food businesses to opt for — you might even recognise a few of these examples from your last takeaway! Below are some plastic containers that will be banned in October, which don’t include already banned plastic straws, and the plastic bag charge placed in 2015. 

Polystyrene Food Boxes, Trays 

Polystyrene trays and food boxes, also known as expanded polystyrene or EPS, are a common sight in the world of takeout and fast food. Examples include clamshell kebab boxes and trays for fish and chip packaging. These containers are lightweight, affordable and provide good insulation properties. 

Polystyrene is derived from petroleum, a fossil fuel, and its production process consumes large amounts of energy and unsustainable resources. Polystyrene food boxes can take hundreds of years to break down naturally, contributing to the growing issue of plastic pollution. Its lightweight nature also makes it prone to wind dispersion, leading to litter and potential harm to wildlife. 

Polystyrene Cups

Similarly, polystyrene coffee cups, commonly used in the coffee and hot drinks industry, offer convenience and insulation for enjoying hot beverages on the go. But improper disposal can result in pollution. To reduce our ecological footprint and beat upcoming plastic bans in October, businesses must choose sustainable alternatives to polystyrene cups, food boxes and trays. 

Plastic Cutlery

Single-use plastic cutlery is a frequently used takeaway packaging that helps hungry customers consume their food easily. But single-use plastic cutlery is another example of food packaging that lingers around in ecosystems. Each year in the UK, an estimated 4.25 billion items of single-use cutlery and 1.1 billion single-use plates are used — but only 10% are recycled in the disposal process. 

Which Food Containers Can You Recycle?

Usually, you’ll find information on the most appropriate way to dispose of a food container directly on the packaging or a label attached. If you’re unfamiliar with food packaging symbols, look at this guide that explains each recycling symbol you might come across in the UK.

Regarding takeaway packaging, figuring out the right way to dispose of it can be challenging since there are usually no explicit instructions. However, you can always seek clarification from your packaging supplier or food vendor. Remember, if you’re a food vendor introducing or customising new packaging, provide clearly printed disposal guidance on your packaging. Evidence shows that consumers need clear instructions to recycle packaging responsibly. Vendors should have a good understanding of the waste credentials of the packaging they provide.

Keep an eye out for any written or visual instructions on the food packaging itself. Conveniently, many ready-made meals include helpful indications such as “film not recyclable” to guide you in the right direction. You’ll often find this information on the back of the packaging, so check the fine print.

It’s important to note that while each meal may vary, most packaged meals in the UK contain a mix of recyclable and non-recyclable elements. Packaging that is 100% recyclable is usually labelled prominently on the front. However, even in such cases, the packaging may contain multiple components that must be disposed of in different bins depending on their materials. So, it’s worth taking a closer look and following the specific guidelines for each component to ensure proper disposal.

Related: The Recycling Sign on Packaging, Explained

What Can Go in the Recycling Bin

With increasing consumer preferences for sustainability, government bans and a planet-positive future to get behind, eco-friendly packaging is the way forward. Opting for recyclable takeaway packaging is a positive step toward reducing waste and minimising environmental impact. When you source your hot and cold food containers from a sustainable packaging supplier like Takeaway Packaging, you can be confident we use high-quality materials that can be recycled and reused, contributing to a circular economy.

Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging Alternatives

Biodegradable and compostable packaging goes even further in terms of sustainability. These innovative packaging solutions break down naturally over time, reducing landfill waste and releasing fewer harmful substances into the environment. By choosing biodegradable and compostable options, you can actively support the transition to a more eco-friendly and responsible approach to packaging too. With this in mind, you can switch to sustainable alternatives to polystyrene food boxes today to lower your carbon footprint.

Eco-Friendly Bagasse Clamshells & Tableware

Bagasse, which is derived from crushed sugarcane, offers a sustainable alternative for food packaging. The fibrous pulp left after extracting sugarcane juice can be transformed into eco-friendly containers and biofuels. With bagasse’s rapid growth cycle, it becomes an excellent choice for crafting durable hot and cold food containers, making it a better option than plastic or polystyrene. Plus, it’s biodegradable and compostable.

When serving your delicious treats, go for eco-friendly bagasse tableware instead of polystyrene plates. Our range of bagasse plates comes in various sizes suitable for hot or cold food. After use, these plates can be composted or disposed of as general waste, as they degrade quickly without harming the environment.

Not only is bagasse tableware sustainable, but it also offers functionality. With a temperature resistance of -10°C to +120°C, it can handle various mouth-watering dishes. At Takeaway Packaging, we provide bagasse clamshell containers, including compartmentalised meal boxes and plates, simplifying sustainability.

Our clamshell burger and meal boxes feature a hinged lid and tuck-in tab for quick and convenient use during busy services. Plus, browse our range of leak-proof bagasse packaging so your food remains intact while on the move.

Related: The Best Packaging for Burgers: A Guide for Restaurants, Kitchens and Vans

Sustainable Coffee Cups 

So what about polystyrene cups; is there something more sustainable? We’ve got a whole range of eco-friendly cups, including clear recyclable and compostable options for cold drinks for you to choose from. 

Our compostable coffee cups feature a PLA lining, providing a natural, glossy and liquid-resistant barrier for hot drinks. PLA is a compostable material that breaks down into organic compounds within three to six months, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to plastics. Unlike plastics that take centuries to decompose, compostable cups minimise environmental damage even if disposed of in general waste.

On the other hand, our recyclable coffee cups have a PE lining and a glossy finish both inside and outside. Designed for hot and cold beverages, these cups remain strong even with condensation. The internal PE coating prevents liquid from seeping through, while the external coating prevents condensation from affecting the cup’s surface.

Eco-Friendly Cutlery

Sub out the plastic cutlery for a new dining experience with our modern, stylish and durable wooden cutlery, suitable for both hot and cold cuisine. Your customers will appreciate the natural aesthetic of our knives, forks, spoons, chopsticks and more. 

And, if you still enjoy the durability of plastic cutlery, we’ve got an eco-friendly alternative. Plant-based PLA bioplastic cutlery offers the same functionality as traditional disposable cutlery but without environmental drawbacks. Our eco cutlery can withstand higher temperatures and is biodegradable, ensuring a superior takeaway experience while maintaining its eco-conscious nature.

Wishcycling & the Future of Food Packaging

Understanding what goes in the recycling bin is crucial for making informed choices about waste disposal. When it comes to polystyrene food containers, the recycling landscape can be complex. While some areas may accept clean and dry polystyrene for recycling, greasy takeaway boxes pose a challenge due to contamination. 

Wishcycling — tossing uncertain items into the recycling bin — can further exacerbate recycling issues. The future of food packaging lies in eco-friendly takeaway packaging solutions like some of our specially designed Kraftware and pizza boxes, which are impervious to grease and moisture, so they can be recycled safely. By opting for sustainable materials like compostable and biodegradable alternatives, we can reduce our reliance on single-use plastics and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Shop sustainably and shop smart. Browse our full range of eco-friendly takeaway packaging today.

Branded food packaging. What’s the big deal?

It can feel like an added, unnecessary expense if you’re a small food business. 

But we believe branded packaging is absolutely essential. 

Packaging in marketing is your portable, walking advertisement. It’s a very potent marketing formula. Now, more than ever, standing out in the fiercely competitive food industry is crucial. Branded takeaway packaging is the most cost-effective way to appeal to your customer base, establish customer trust and drive sales to your business. We’ll explore all the advantages of custom packaging (including going eco-friendly) and why you should embrace bespoke branding opportunities today.

Related: How to Present Mouthwatering Takeaways Using Premium Food Packaging

Why Use Branded Packaging for Takeaway Food?

The power of branded packaging is not to be underestimated. 

Not convinced? 

Imagine you’re a potential customer.

You’re at a street food market, hungry to try some delicious goods on offer.

You notice a few people walking past with colourful takeaway boxes holding a steaming portion of fish and chips. The style of the box and the branding has intrigued you, so you ask people where they got it from. You were looking for food because you were hungry, but the packaging caught your attention and convinced you to purchase.

Even if this food is unbelievably delectable, without an eye-catching packaging design, you wouldn’t have been drawn to it in the first place. The branded takeaway packaging did the advertising and secured your decision — this is called brand visibility.

It’s a no-brainer. Investing in branded takeaway packaging will give you a leg-up on your competitors and persuade customers to buy from you again. Let’s look in more detail at how packaging can revolutionise your brand. 

Why Branded Packaging Is Important

As explained above, designing unique food packaging allows your business to promote itself the moment customers leave your shop. Branded takeaway packaging doesn’t just come down to the food containers but also the accessories. Think about branding your cups, cutlery and napkins — or perhaps a stylish paper bag or food carrier that is functional, convenient and a clever marketing tool. Here are some fundamental reasons to opt for branded takeaway packaging to increase sales and help build your brand.

The Professional ‘Image’

Branded takeaway packaging plays a crucial role in conveying a sense of professionalism and credibility to customers. When your packaging prominently features your brand logo, colours and design elements, it demonstrates that your business pays attention to the details and takes pride in presenting a cohesive and visually appealing image. By investing in branded packaging, you signal to customers that you value quality throughout your entire operation, from ingredients and food preparation to presentation and delivery experience. 

TOP TIP: Remember, eye-catching branded packaging is highly shareable on social media platforms — key for driving brand trust. Customers often take pictures and post them online, amplifying your brand’s visibility and potentially attracting new customers.

Differentiation & the Customer Experience 

In today’s competitive market, standing out from the crowd is essential for the success of any business. Branded packaging serves as a powerful tool for differentiation, enabling you to establish a distinctive identity that sets you apart from your competitors.

Your packaging showcases your unique brand identity and creates a memorable customer experience. The visual elements in your design leave a lasting impression and become synonymous with your brand. This helps customers recognise and remember your business, even amidst a sea of other options — particularly if they have a good experience. When customers receive their orders in beautifully branded packaging, it creates a sense of delight and anticipation. It sets a positive tone for the meal, creating a favourable association between your brand and the enjoyment that awaits.

TOP TIP: Developing cohesive brand logos and designs ensures consistency across all touchpoints, aligning your overall brand strategy. It reinforces your brand message and values, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust.

Repeat Purchases, Referrals & Cross-Selling

Customers who receive a positive experience with your branded food packaging (like convenient opening) are likelier to return for future orders and recommend your business to others. It helps generate repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals. Plus, branded packaging in marketing can be leveraged to promote additional products or services, encouraging upselling and cross-selling. It provides an opportunity to showcase new offerings or special promotions directly to customers.

Promote your brand identity beyond boring, non-branded packaging. Custom designs maintain consistency, promote your brand and enhance the customer experience. With 72% of consumers saying that good packaging influences their purchasing decision, developing brand presence by using packaging as an extension of your advertising makes sense. It can also demonstrate your brand’s credibility, retaining a good reputation for well-packaged, tasty food. 

Why Colour Matters in Branding

It’s a fact: presentation matters.

Your brand needs to be distinctive to appeal to your consumers. Uniquely packaging your food ensures that it stands out from the crowd. Colour matters in branding because it triggers instant curiosity as soon as someone sees it. As social beings, we’re more inclined to share the appeal of a clever or unusual design with each other. This can help achieve word-of-mouth marketing that costs little to pull off. 

Research has shown that 90% of consumers’ purchase judgements are based on colour, with 85% saying that colour is the main factor in their decision. Colour has psychological implications. Think about popular fast-food chains such as McDonald’s and Burger King that use yellow in their branding or red by KFC and Five Guys. 

Build Successful Customer Loyalty

You shouldn’t limit your takeaway packaging to enticing new customers — it’s also about retaining a loyal customer base. Creating a unique packaging design will encourage familiarity with your food as consumers start trusting in the quality of your product.  Brand recognition is a factor that can increase your revenue by 31%. 

Marketing is all about establishing trust between the consumer and the brand. It’s the age of authenticity. With so many brands professing their innate superiority, the market is saturated. That’s why it’s essential to be transparent and authentic in presenting your brand to consumers.

Sticking to your brand values, messaging and image is all about consistency. Consistent brand representation can increase sales for your business, maintaining clarity and confidence in your product. 

Eco-Friendly Branded Packaging

One way to encourage customer loyalty is through investing in eco-friendly takeaway food packaging. There has been a recent rise in consumer concerns about our impact on the environment. In fact, most consumers prefer sustainable packaging and have become more environmentally conscious in their purchasing habits. Switching to eco-friendly packaging is an opportunity to showcase brand transparency as consumers look for ways to shrink their carbon footprint. 

But it’s not just consumers you need to look out for. October 2023 marks the introduction of the UK government’s single-use plastic ban. Single-use plastic cutlery, plates, bowls and trays all fall under this new legislation — so going sustainable with your takeaway packaging is inevitable. As the UK’s first carbon-neutral food packaging supplier, we can lend a hand and provide viable, eco-friendly custom options to transform how you serve your cuisine. 

Related: Which Single-Use Food Packaging Items Are Banned in the UK?

	Branded Paper Cups Sip sustainability. We specialise in fully customised, eco-friendly drinks packaging that combines style and sustainability. You can increase brand awareness by printing your business name, logo or artwork on our takeaway coffee cups. Our responsibly sourced, plastic-free materials and water/vegetable-based inks ensure that packaging is food-safe and environmentally friendly. We use natural substances like PLA and bagasse to create recyclable or biodegradable cups. Find Out More > Related: Packaging Supplies for Cafés: Everything You Need for Your Coffee Shop
	Custom Ice Cream Packaging & Bowls Pair your custom ice cream tubs with compostable ice cream spoons, including biodegradable and rustic wooden options, for a completely sustainable solution. Unlike traditional tubs and bowls, our durable designs are leak-resistant and stay strong even when in contact with moisture. Our ice cream tubs and soup bowls are lined with either PE or Ingeo™ PLA, a fully biodegradable and compostable coating derived from natural materials that provide a barrier against heat, frost, liquid and condensation. Find Out More >
	Branded Takeaway Boxes & Food Carriers Impress your customers with our custom takeaway food boxes, perfect for both hot and cold food. Ditch the plain packaging and opt for eco-friendly, meticulously designed food boxes and carriers in various sizes, styles and designs that showcase your brand’s unique style and commitment to sustainability. Made from durable and sustainable materials, our custom packaging ensures your takeaways arrive fresh and ready to eat. We even offer storage and distribution services for your custom takeaway food boxes, providing next-day delivery when you need more. Find Out More >
	Branded Stickers Are you looking for a cost-effective custom branding solution? Eye-catching food label stickers give your takeaways a professional and stylish look. Whether sealing sandwich bags or adding a pop of colour to paper cups and ice cream tubs, our custom stickers provide versatile and consistent branding across your entire menu. Our branded packaging stickers can be environmentally friendly too. Made from paper-based materials and non-toxic inks, they’re 100% recyclable and compostable, making it easy for you and your customers to dispose of them guilt-free. Find Out More >
	Custom Paper Bags Regarding eco-friendly packaging, paper bags are the way to go. Unlike plastic bags, paper-based packaging is a sustainable choice for businesses aiming to minimise non-recyclable waste and reduce their carbon footprint. At Takeaway Packaging, we offer custom-printed designs made from FSC-certified materials, ensuring quality and sustainability. Our paper bags, including SOS paper bags and twisted paper bags, are available in a wide range of styles, sizes, materials and handle designs. Find Out More >
	Branded Greaseproof Paper What sets our greaseproof paper apart is its recyclability. As long as it remains uncontaminated, our greaseproof paper, made from 100% virgin pulp, can be easily recycled or composted domestically or commercially. Unlike other options, our greaseproof paper doesn’t rely on silicone linings. Instead, it is crafted from natural and tightly woven fibres, forming a protective barrier that effectively prevents water or oil from penetrating the surface. With our greaseproof paper, you can enjoy sustainable packaging without compromising quality or performance. Find Out More >

 

Related: Can You Recycle Greasy Pizza Boxes?

Sustainable food packaging like compostable Bagasse BePulp containers can keep food hot and fresh with a low environmental impact. All your packaging can be green — down to paper straws and condiments. This is a huge selling point for the environmentally-conscious market — combined with aesthetic and practical packaging — you’re on to a winner here. 

Case Study: Marlowe’s Burgers

Different colours and fonts elicit specific emotions and impressions from consumers, so it’s worth considering which to choose to appeal to your target audience. Committing to a simple yet striking colour scheme and consistent fonts will help customers remember your brand. It’ll also make other aspects of your brand marketing easier to manage, including your food packaging.

Marlowe’s Burgers have nailed its branded food packaging. With the intelligent use of bold, black text on the neutral, rustic background of our Kraftware, their branding shines through loud and clear. They’ve included pointers to let customers know their beef is high-quality and responsibly sourced. Custom branding doesn’t always have to be bright, contrasting colours. Marlowe’s has shown that they can reinforce brand consistency in a memorable way with thoughtful logo design and placement. 

Read more about Marlowe’s Burgers’ packaging design >

Wrap up Your Rivals with Branded Takeaway Packaging

A bespoke packaging design gives you an advantage over your competitors. Acting as a mobile advertisement, you’re promoting your brand to potential new customers. Unique packaging could be why customers come to you over another brand they don’t recognise. 

Branded takeaway packaging can tell your brand’s story, engage customers and emphasise your brand values — all of which create a lasting impression that will drive sales to help you achieve success in a competitive market. 

Get in touch with us today to kickstart your journey to unique branded packaging. 

Ah, fish and chips — the quintessential British seaside delight that conjures up images of sandy beaches, seagulls swooping overhead, and the comforting aroma of crispy battered fish. 

But let’s not forget the unsung hero of this culinary affair: the packaging that keeps our beloved dish hot, fresh, and ready for devouring. But, traditional packaging such as polystyrene containers and newspaper sheets aren’t particularly food safe or sustainable. 

As the UK’s leading eco-friendly supplier for takeaway packaging, we’d like to introduce you to the world of sustainable fish and chips packaging, where tradition meets innovation. Join us on this journey as we explore the practices shaping the industry, pay homage to the beloved British tradition, and discover how your sustainable fish and chip boxes could be making waves in the fish and chips scene.

A Few Problems with Traditional Fish and Chips Packaging

Conventional fish and chips packaging, while convenient, comes at an environmental cost. Polystyrene can take hundreds of years to break down, polluting our oceans and damaging marine life. Plastic cutlery, casually discarded after a single use, clogs landfills and lingers for centuries. And let’s not forget that greaseproof paper coated with silicone, which can’t be recycled and ends up in the landfill. 

With the single-use plastic ban looming, it’s time to reimagine fish and chips packaging and address the concerns from both an environmental standpoint and the customers’ desire for sustainable alternatives. Together, let’s embark on a journey towards greener, guilt-free fish and chips enjoyment!

Related: Which Single-Use Food Packaging Items Are Banned in the UK?

Eco-friendly Packaging for Fish and Chips — What Do I Need? 

Fish and chips shops and takeaway houses face unique challenges when it comes to choosing their packaging. One of the main hurdles is finding packaging that can maintain the crispy texture and warmth of the fish and chips while still being environmentally friendly.

Traditional packaging options, such as polystyrene trays, may excel in insulation but contribute to the growing plastic waste problem. Moreover, the industry’s reliance on single-use plastics, like plastic cutlery and condiment sachets, adds to the environmental impact. Another challenge is striking a balance between functionality and sustainability. Fish and chips packaging needs to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight and moisture of the food yet eco-friendly enough to meet customer demands for sustainable options and be easy to dispose of. 

Remember, the more simple, guilt-free and functional you make your fish and chip packaging, the more likely consumers will come back for repeat purchases. 

Compliment your eco-friendly takeaway packaging with our compostable, plastic-free condiments.

Food Grade Fish and Chips Packaging

Food grade packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of our food. It goes beyond just preserving the freshness and flavour; it provides a barrier between the product and external contaminants, maintaining hygiene standards and preventing any potential health risks. Whether it’s fish and chips, burgers, or any other food item, using food-grade packaging is essential to protect consumers and meet regulatory requirements. 

Buying from Takeaway Packaging is a guarantee you’re complying with food-grade standards. We hold a Grade A certification from BRCGS (British Reputation Compliance Global Standards), validating our expertise in storing food grade and non-food grade packaging. We also have vast experience with stationery items for restaurant groups and contract packing for ambient-stable food sachets into retail/wholesaler packs.

Related: What Is Food-Grade Packaging? Things You Need to Know If You’re in the Food Service Sector

Implementing Eco-Friendly Fish and Chips Packaging

Before you transition to sustainable fish and chips packaging, you’ll need to consider a few practical factors first.

Step 1: Conduct a packaging audit — start by conducting a thorough packaging audit to gain a clear understanding of your current packaging needs, materials, and processes. Assess the environmental impact of your existing packaging and identify areas for improvement. 

Step 2: Set achievable goals for transitioning to eco-friendly packaging — once you have a comprehensive understanding of your current packaging, set realistic and achievable goals for transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives. Consider whether it’s feasible to transition all your packaging at once or if a phased approach would be more practical. 

Step 3: Research and select appropriate eco-friendly packaging suppliers — conduct thorough research to identify and select reputable eco-friendly packaging suppliers. Look for suppliers that offer a wide range of sustainable packaging options tailored to your specific needs. Consider additional services they provide, such as fulfilment or inventory management, which could streamline your transition process.

Step 4: Obtaining feedback and continually improving your packaging practices — encourage feedback from both staff and customers regarding the new packaging. Listen to their experiences, suggestions, and concerns. Use this feedback to identify areas for improvement and refine your packaging practices. Look for innovative solutions and stay updated on emerging trends and technologies in eco-friendly packaging to ensure your practices remain at the forefront of sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions for Fish and Chips

As awareness grows about the environmental impact of single-use plastics, it’s becoming increasingly important to find sustainable alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or convenience. When we think of classic fast food, images of crispy fish and chips, juicy sausages or hot dogs, and mouthwatering burgers often come to mind. However, these delicious treats have long been associated with non-recyclable packaging materials. 

Let’s delve into the world of eco-friendly packaging options specifically tailored for fish and chips, hot dogs, and burgers. We’ll explore various alternatives such as compostable containers made from plant-based materials and innovative greaseproof, which improves recyclability for meal and pizza boxes. 

Eco-Friendly Greaseproof Paper

At Takeaway Packaging, we use water or vegetable-based inks to create our printed greaseproof paper, ensuring that our packaging is food-safe, environmentally friendly and vividly coloured. 

One of the smartest features of our greaseproof paper is its absence of a silicone lining. Instead, it is made from natural, tightly woven fibres that repel water and oil. This innovative design ensures that the paper performs just as well as non-recyclable alternatives, offering you all the advantages without any of the environmental drawbacks. Made from 100% virgin pulp, it can be easily recycled or composted, whether through domestic or commercial channels. By choosing our packaging, you can actively contribute to the recycling loop and reduce waste.

Fish and Chips in Newspaper

What about an old classic, wrapping your fish and chips in newspaper? 

Well, this actually comes with a few drawbacks. The ink used in newspapers can contain harmful chemicals and pose a health risk when in contact with hot food. Importantly, newspaper is not designed for food contact and can raise concerns about hygiene and cross-contamination. Moreover, its porous nature fails to provide an effective barrier against moisture and grease, leading to leaks and a messy eating experience. Recycling newspapers mixed with food waste can complicate the recycling process. Considering these drawbacks, makes perfect sense to explore eco-friendly greaseproof paper as a viable alternative for food packaging — one that can ensure safety and minimises environmental harm.

Related: Is Greaseproof Paper Recyclable?

Fish and Chip Takeaway Boxes

To package your crispy and fresh delights ready for eco-consumption, you’ll need a suitable hot food container. Here are just a few forward-thinking options:

Bagasse	Kraft	Cardboard
Bagasse-based packaging for fish and chips offers an eco-friendly packaging solution. Choose from compartmentalised boxes or anti-leak solutions. Made from sugarcane pulp, these boxes are 100% biodegradable and compostable, making them a popular choice among eco-conscious businesses as an alternative to polystyrene.	Kraft packaging offers excellent resistance to oil, grease, and moisture. These robust boxes, trays and chip cups not only have a charming rustic appearance that complements the food but also provide protection from external elements with their lock-in tab lids. These boxes are completely recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable.	The premium design of our cardboard meal boxes offers convenience and functionality for fish and chips packaging. With a collapsible structure, they’re easy to store when not in use. The cleverly designed vents in the lid allow hot air to escape, preventing sogginess, while the fluted cardboard design provides insulation, keeping your fish and chips hot and fresh for an extended period.

Want to dip into a new eco-pot-tunity? Looking for sauce pots for your mushy peas or curry sauce? 

Browse our range of recyclable and compostable sauce pots today

Paper Bags	Napkins	Biodegradable Cutlery
Our grab bags are great for smaller takeaways, while our durable carry cases can handle fish and chip feasts for the whole family. Whether it’s a single battered sausage or an entire office lunch order, we’ve got you covered. Our range of paper bags and food carriers are suitable for home composting and are biodegradable.	Bring cleanliness and tidiness to your customers when indulging in your fantastic fish and chips with our range of eco-friendly napkins. There’s a wide array of colours available; our napkins allow you to maintain consistent branding without the need for a fully customised design.	To cater to your customer’s needs, we offer a range of biodegradable cutlery options, including forks, knives, and spoons. These can be conveniently purchased individually or as complete cutlery sets, providing versatility and eco-friendly choices for your dining experience.

Brand your paper bags today with our custom packaging options. Find out more.

Case Study: Shoal Fish and Chips Packaging

Shoal in Winchester came to us needing customised twisted-handle paper bags and specialised fish and chip boxes to keep their tasty fish and chips in prime condition for their customers. 

Shoal is a vibrant and trendy seafood restaurant located in the heart of Winchester, with a focus on serving fresh and sustainable seafood. The menu features a diverse selection of dishes inspired by coastal cuisine, showcasing the best of local and seasonal ingredients. Using ethically and responsibly sourced fish, Shoal wanted to extend their commitment to sustainability by investing in eco-friendly fish and chips packaging. 

Our twisted-handle paper bags are made from 80% recycled materials and are completely compostable after use. We’ve revolutionised the traditional cardboard pizza box design by using virgin Kraft paper on the inside of our fish and chip boxes. This approach ensures that our boxes are food grade and safe for direct contact with food. Plus, this design enhances grease resistance, as the tighter-packed fibres in the paper make it a lot harder for the grease to penetrate the box. 

Offsetting dark blue on white is a simple way of making contrasting colours stand out. The tails of the fish combined with coral and seaweed floating between gives a natural feel — a nice reference to Shoal’s dedication to selecting responsibly-sourced and seasonal fish. 

Custom branding like this is a worthwhile investment as it advertises your product, which will drive sales. Spread the word through compelling designs, solidifying brand consistency and tempting new customers to buy from you. 

Learn more about branded packaging

Order Fish and Chips Packaging with Us!

Choosing Takeaway Packaging for your fish and chips packaging needs brings numerous advantages. We prioritise sustainability (we’re even carbon-neutral!) by offering a wide range of eco-friendly options made from renewable and biodegradable materials, reducing environmental impact. 

Our packaging is certified as food grade, ensuring the highest safety and hygiene standards. We also provide customisation options to promote your brand’s identity. With versatile packaging solutions for various portion sizes, we guarantee the freshness and presentation of your fish and chips. Our reliable and efficient service ensures prompt next-day delivery, allowing you to focus on serving delicious meals to your customers. 

Make a sustainable choice with Takeaway Packaging and elevate the dining experience with our high-quality, environmentally friendly fish and chips packaging.

Discover more eco-friendly hot food containers to keep your fish and chips warm and tasty.

Fast food packaging comes in all shapes and sizes. It’s made from various materials and can have some cool features, but it isn’t easy to impress your customers with fun and functional packaging.

As the UK’s takeaway packaging experts, we’ve helped countless businesses create fantastic fast food packaging, from internationally renowned fast food brands to under-the-radar dark kitchens. We’re here to help you too, so let’s get started!

Related: The Facts: Fast-Food Packaging Waste Statistics.

Why is Fast Food Packaging Important?

We’ll start with the basics. Fast food packaging plays a crucial role in the food industry, providing convenient and efficient solutions for on-the-go meals. Fast food packaging helps food remain fresh, hygienic, and easy to transport, allowing customers to enjoy their meals wherever they go. In addition, fast food packaging serves as a branding and marketing tool, showcasing the restaurant’s logo, promoting its products, and enriching the overall dining experience.

As the demand for quick and convenient meals grows, innovative and eco-friendly fast food packaging solutions are crucial to meet rising eco-conscious customer expectations. 

Related: The Best Packaging for Burgers: A Guide for Restaurants, Kitchens and Vans.

Eco-Friendly Fast Food Packaging

Choosing eco-friendly fast food packaging goes beyond simply impressing an eco-conscious market. Let’s understand why single-use fast food packaging affects the environment and why switching to sustainability is a good idea. 

Firstly, it’s a game-changer in reducing the environmental impact of the fast food industry. By ditching single-use packaging and opting for eco-friendly alternatives like biodegradable or compostable materials, we can tackle the waste problem head-on. 

Secondly, eco-friendly packaging is all about sustainability. By using renewable materials like plant-based or recycled options, we’re doing our part to conserve precious resources and cut down on harmful emissions. It’s a win-win. Going eco-friendly with fast food packaging shows that you care. It’s a statement to your customers that you prioritise the well-being of the planet.

In October 2023, the government is banning single-use plastic packaging, and this will have a direct impact on the food service industry. If your business is still relying on polystyrene food packaging and plastic cutlery, it’s time to make a change.  

Luckily, there’s a wide range of eco-friendly alternatives ready to step in. Sustainable fast food packaging options such as bagasse clamshell food containers and biodegradable cutlery align with the upcoming regulations and contribute to a greener future.

Fast Food Packaging Materials

While convenience remains a top priority for fast food purchases, consumers are increasingly mindful of the environment and look for packaging that can be easily and responsibly disposed of. This can be a challenge for fast food outlets but don’t worry. To simplify the process, we’ve highlighted four essential factors to consider when selecting packaging for your fast-food products:

Materials — Help reduce environmental impact by using sustainable and eco-friendly materials, such as biodegradable or compostable fast food packaging. By using materials derived from renewable resources or recycled content, you can minimise waste, appeal to an eco-conscious market and promote a circular economy.

Functionality — Functionality plays a vital role in fast food packaging. Consider the type of food you need the packaging for. It should be designed to effectively contain and protect food, ensuring it remains fresh and intact during transport and consumption. Packaging should also be easy to handle, open, and close, providing convenience for both customers and staff.

Design — Fast food packaging design is essential for branding and customer experience. Just think about all the big fast food brands and their notable logos and use of colours. Eye-catching and visually appealing packaging leaves a positive impression and contributes to brand recognition. Consider incorporating your brand’s colours, logo, and unique designs which fits with your brand identity.

Disposability — Going for packaging materials that can be easily recycled or composted offers responsible disposal options and helps minimise waste. It is equally important to educate consumers about the correct methods of disposing of packaging, making sure they do so responsibly. 

Safety — Make sure the materials used are food-safe and do not pose any health risks to consumers. They should be free from harmful chemicals or toxins that can leach into the food. If you need a reliable storage solution for your food packaging, we can help. Our facilities boast BRCGS accreditation, ensuring the highest food safety standards for your stock. Trust us with your storage needs.

Availability and Cost — Evaluate the cost of the packaging materials and assess their affordability and availability within your business operations. Look for options that provide a balance between quality and cost.

By taking into account each of these elements, you have the opportunity to craft sustainable fast-food packaging that not only impresses your customers but also fosters their loyalty and encourages business. 

Related: What Is Food-Grade Packaging? Things You Need to Know If You’re in the Food Service Sector.

Choosing Your Fast Food Packaging Materials

When it comes to fast food packaging, choosing eco-friendly options is not only a responsible choice but also a smart business decision. Discover how you can make a positive impact on the environment while meeting the demands of your eco-conscious customers.

Kraftware

Add your branding to your packaging and learn about our custom packaging options today.

Kraft fast food packaging is made from premium-quality, food-grade Kraft board, which is durable and resistant to water, grease, and oil. It’s not only plastic-free but also biodegradable, offering eco-friendly disposal options. Your customers can choose to compost it at home, recycle it, or opt for commercial composting, promoting responsible waste management. Our versatile snack boxes are leak-proof, grease-resistant, and stackable, making them a popular choice for various foods. For appetisers and sides (even churros!), our chip cups are perfect. For pizza and burgers, our Kraft-based burger boxes and pizza boxes are available in different sizes, all perfect for serving up sustainability effortlessly.

Bagasse Clamshell and Tableware

Keep it clean and get colourful compostable napkins for your food service

Bagasse food packaging is made from the fibrous pulp left behind after sugarcane is crushed to extract its juices. Eco-friendly bagasse clamshells and tableware are the perfect alternatives to polystyrene for serving your delicious treats. Bagasse is suitable for both cold and hot food and can be composted or disposed of as general waste since they degrade quickly.  Bagasse tableware can withstand temperatures from -10°C to +120°C. Our range includes compartmentalised meal boxes, trays, burger boxes, and leak-proof packaging, maximising convenience and sustainability for your customers.

Paper Bags and Food Carriers

We’re certified carbon-neutral. Find out how we’re offsetting all the carbon emissions we make.

Give your customers an easy way to transport their fast food with our impressive selection of eco-friendly gable boxes and stylish twisted-handle bags. For a Friday night takeout or just a cosy night in — we have the perfect carry case for every occasion. Our range includes smaller eco-friendly grab bags for quick takeaways and durable carry cases for family feasts.  Our paper bags and food carriers are home compostable and biodegradable, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.

Biodegradable Cutlery and Accessories

Personalise your food packaging with custom-printed greaseproof paper. Order now with low minimum quantities!

Ditch the single-use plastic cutlery and avoid being caught out by the single-use plastic ban. Instead, go for eco-friendly alternatives like biodegradable cutlery with a natural wooden look or robust bioplastic options. By making this simple switch, enjoy giving your customers the convenience of disposable cutlery without harming the environment. Fast food can be messy to eat, so it’s important your customers can tuck in easily. Our greaseproof paper stands out from the rest because it doesn’t contain a silicone lining. Made from 100% virgin pulp, it features tightly woven fibres that effectively block water and oil from seeping through. This unique quality allows our greaseproof paper to be recycled or composted after use, unlike other options in the market.

Your New Fast Food Packaging Supplier

Takeaway Packaging is a renowned supplier of eco-friendly food packaging solutions in the UK. We specialise in offering a diverse range of high-quality products that are designed with sustainability in mind. Whether it’s compostable food containers, biodegradable bags, or recyclable paper packaging, we have one of the widest selections to meet the various needs of every food service.

We’re known for our custom fast-food packaging options, allowing businesses to showcase their branding and be part of an unforgettable customer experience. Our commitment to excellent customer service, competitive pricing, and flexible ordering options makes us a trusted and preferred partner for businesses seeking reliable and environmentally conscious packaging solutions.

Buy high-quality fast food packaging from our online shop or get in touch for a free custom design quote in less than 48 hours.

As a provider of carbon-neutral packaging, we often discuss the bad and good things about plastic food packaging. We promote our range of eco-friendly packaging products wherever possible, but it’s important to take a step back and acknowledge why some types of plastic food packaging are still widely used.

So is plastic food packaging becoming redundant? Find out with Takeaway Packaging, the UK’s top-rated food packaging supplier.

Types of Plastic Food Packaging 

Many food packaging products are made using plastic-based materials, particularly in PPDS food items and takeaway food packaging products that are intended for single-use:

Plastic Bags

Plastic bags have always been a lightweight and convenient way to pack and transport food items like sandwiches, wraps and pastries. But due to the plastic bag tax, they’re less popular than they used to be.

Plastic Containers

Plastic takeaway containers are used to hold hot and cold food. They’re adept at keeping food fresh for longer periods. Curries, noodles, pasta dishes and salads are commonly served in plastic containers.

Plastic Clamshells

Often made of polystyrene, clamshell packaging is used for takeaway meals like burgers, fries or wraps, which need to be accessed conveniently for immediate consumption.

Greaseproof Paper 

Silicone-lined greaseproof paper is designed to keep wrapped sandwiches, pastries and other food items fresh. Using greaseproof paper can also make eating less messy.

Plastic Cups & Lids

Smoothies, bubble tea and colourful juices look best in a clear, plastic cup. Some hot drinks packaging is lined with PE (polyethylene) for increased moisture resistance. 

Plastic Cutlery

For food on the go, like takeaway meals, plastic cutlery like forks, spoons and knives helps consumers enjoy their food whenever and wherever they want. 

Plastic Pouches

Sauces, dips and condiments regularly come in small plastic squeezable pouches. 

In the 1950s, plastic production began to soar, and since then, these types of plastic food packaging have become a mainstay among takeaway restaurants and street food vendors. Only a decade later, the world began to realise that although convenient and durable, plastic food packaging had a few problems. 

Related: What Kinds of Plastic Are Used for Food Packaging?

Potential Problems with Plastic Food Packaging

While commonly used for food packaging, some forms of plastic come with significant drawbacks. It has a long decomposition time, causing pollution and harm to wildlife. There is evidence of harmful effects on health from the dangers of phthalates and microplastics and environmental hazards from oil-based plastics. Here are some of the bad things about plastic which might make you want to switch to sustainability:

• Environmental impact: Plastic packaging contributes to the accumulation of long-lasting plastic waste in the environment, negatively impacting wildlife and ecosystems. 
• Health risks: Some plastic food packaging types may release harmful chemicals when heated, potentially contaminating food and posing health risks to consumers due to phthalates and microplastics.
• Limited recyclability: While some plastic packaging is recyclable, many types are not, leading to a large amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills or the environment.
• Non-biodegradable: Plastics do not biodegrade like organic materials but instead break down into smaller pieces that persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
• Energy consumption: The production of plastic food packaging requires substantial energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
• Single-use plastic ban: This means that plastic-based food packaging like plates, bowls, clamshells, straws and cups are banned, so you won’t be able to use them in your takeaway service. 

 

Related: Which Single-Use Food Packaging Items Are Banned in the UK?

Why Is Plastic Still Used for Food Packaging?

Plastic is used for food packaging because it is versatile, cost-effective, offers substantial protection and is widely available. It can be moulded into various shapes, is lightweight for transportation, and provides a barrier against moisture, air and contaminants to keep food fresh. 

But, there is growing awareness of the environmental impacts of plastic, and efforts are being made to reduce plastic use and find more sustainable alternatives for food packaging.

Plastic Packaging Alternatives for Food and Drinks

We offer a comprehensive range of eco-friendly packaging for all kinds of food and drinks to minimise the use of non-recyclable and non-biodegradable materials.

We supply eco-friendly single-use packaging to various high-end food suppliers in the UK. As such, we’re responsible for making sure our products provide an ethical and sustainable way for brands like Nando’s and Pizza Hut to serve their customers:

	Recyclable Packaging Recycling at home is an essential part of living an eco-friendly lifestyle. That’s why we designed our pizza boxes with grease-resistant properties that dramatically improve recycling rates. They’re much less likely to spoil, giving your customers a much better experience and helping them protect the environment.
	Biodegradable Packaging Once used, biodegradable packaging products can be thrown away in general waste. This saves customers extra hassle seeking out recycling points or cleaning out their packaging for efficient recycling. This can be particularly useful if the packaging isn’t practical or convenient for reuse, like our biodegradable coffee cups.
	Compostable Packaging Home and commercially compostable packaging gives businesses and consumers more options to dispose of used packaging responsibly. Made of natural, plant-based materials, compostable products like our ice cream cups degrade naturally in a short time compared to plastics, which often take hundreds of years to decompose.

How to Reduce Plastic Use in Food Packaging

If you’re operating in the food service sector, you need sustainable packaging that keeps hot food warm and cold food chilled. The packaging you choose will likely be single-use, so it should be easy for your customers to dispose of it responsibly. Although plastic food packaging was a staple choice for many, it isn’t naturally biodegradable, making it harder to justify as single-use packaging.

Lets explore some alternative eco-friendly food packaging solutions that appeal to the evolving preferences of consumers and a planet-positive future.

Bagasse Food Packaging: Plates, Clamshells & Bowls

Bagasse, a versatile packaging material, has gained recognition for its impressive attributes. Derived from sugarcane pulp, a natural by-product of sugarcane harvesting, bagasse is sturdy, biodegradable, and compostable. It is readily accessible and requires minimal processing, yet it boasts remarkable durability while being environmentally friendly.

Bagasse food packaging is available in diverse designs, such as clamshell meal boxes, leakproof bowls, and plates, making it suitable for a wide variety of hot and cold food options. Bagasse is an ideal packaging material for over-the-counter food service establishments seeking sustainable, eco-friendly solutions.

Kraft Food Packaging: Trays & Meal Boxes

Unlike plastic-based takeaway containers, Kraft food packaging is recyclable and biodegradable, making it a sustainable choice. Evidence suggests consumers prefer natural packaging materials like paper, cardboard, and Kraft board. This is because they’re considered environmentally friendly, lightweight, and feature a rustic aesthetic.

Kraft packaging is eco-friendly and perfect for hot food. Explore our selection of meal boxes, trays and more made from renewable Kraft wood pulp. 

Eco-Friendly Greaseproof Paper 

Our compostable greaseproof paper is crafted from 100% virgin pulp and features a unique composition of tightly compacted fibres, rendering it impermeable to oil, grease, fat, and moisture. This all without the need for a silica-based coating found on traditional greaseproof papers.

This means it can be commercially or home composted or recycled, making it an eco-friendly choice. Under optimal conditions, our sustainable greaseproof paper degrades within three to six months for a guilt-free disposal experience your customers can enjoy.

Make greaseproof great again and custom brand your compostable, printed greaseproof paper.

Paper Bags & Food Carriers

Delight your customers with an impressive range of eco-friendly packaging, including gable boxes and twisted handle bags. Whether you’re handing over Friday night takeout to a busy customer or a kids’ activity pack to an excited toddler, we have the perfect food packaging for every occasion.

What sets our paper bags and food carriers apart is that they are compostable and biodegradable, making them a sustainable choice for your eco-conscious brand. Even our sandwich bags feature transparent bioplastic windows and are fully compostable. 

Cutlery & Napkins

Stylish and sturdy eco-friendly wooden cutlery is perfect for hot or cold cuisine, adding an organic aesthetic. Plant-based PLA bioplastic cutlery sets are a strong option, able to withstand high temperatures and are biodegradable after use. Our paper napkins, made from recycled paper, are 100% recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable, providing the perfect eco-friendly finish to your takeaway.

Hold the sustainable sauce. Get your eco-friendly condiments from us too.

Remember that food-grade packaging is crucial for maintaining the safety, quality, and freshness of food products. It prevents contamination, preserves nutritional value, extends shelf life, and provides essential information to consumers. Compliance with regulatory standards ensures that food is stored, transported, and consumed safely — making sure customers keep coming back to you.

We hold BRCGS certification for storing food and non-food grade packaging, stationery items for restaurants, and contract packing of ambient-stable food sachets into retail/wholesaler packs. Our certification is to the highest grade A standard.

Related: What Is Food-Grade Packaging? Things You Need to Know If You’re in the Food Service Sector

How to Reduce Plastic Use in Drinks Packaging

After determining the appropriate size packaging for your different types of beverages, the next step is to consider the design that aligns with your budget and drinks menu. If you’re a coffee shop owner new to the industry, read our helpful guide on choosing the right size cup for different drinks. 

Hot Drinks 

You have many sustainable options for hot drinks, from recyclable cups to biodegradable eco-cups. At Takeaway Packaging we stock both recyclable and biodegradable cups — giving you a range of options to go green. 

Single wall cups, made of single-layer paperboard, are affordable and best suited for cold drinks. For hot beverages, they can be used with a coffee cup sleeve and cautionary message. 

Double wall cups are another best-selling alternative, providing maximum insulation and structural integrity without needing a cup sleeve, ideal for hot drinks. Branded designs on double wall cups stand out against the white rims, offering a bold appearance. 

Ripple wall cups, with their textured surfaces, are similar to double wall cups in terms of insulation and grip. They are especially convenient for carrying hot drinks in adverse weather conditions, keeping beverages hotter for longer.

Looking for some accessories for your coffee cups? Browse our range of eco cup sleeves, stirrers & carriers.

Cold Drinks

Coffee shops nowadays offer more than just coffee, with smoothies, frappes, and juices also on the menu. With the choice of biodegradable straws, it’s time to switch out the plastic.

Clear eco-cups are popular for serving cold drinks. PLA clear cups are environmentally friendly, fully biodegradable, compostable, and customisable with branding.

Our branded packaging is designed in-house by our team of packaging experts. We can help you create Instagram-ready pizza boxes, coffee cups, food carriers and more using water and vegetable-based inks. 

Get in touch with our team for a free custom design quote. 

Should You Ever Use Plastic Packaging for Food or Drinks?

Most people are pretty savvy with recycling, so in some instances, using packaging made from plastic is a relatively sustainable option. This is especially true in the events and street food sectors where only general waste and recycling waste receptacles are available to attendees. 

For example, recyclable clear cups and PE lined coffee cups make recycling single-use drinks packaging simple, especially if your customers are on-the-go. In terms of plastic food packaging, FastPac bowls and containers are leakproof, reusable and recyclable, making them a good option for different kinds of cuisine.

Yet the environmental disadvantages of plastic far outweigh the positives, so opt for plastic-free alternatives where possible and only use plastic when it makes sense to.

Ordering Our Eco-Friendly Packaging for Takeaways

We’re committed to bringing you eco-friendly packaging with exceptional service at Takeaway Packaging. We can help you build your brand with our expertise and a superb team of in-house designers who have worked for a wide variety of food businesses.

Get a FREE design quote for eco-friendly food packaging in 48 hours.

Who doesn’t love a bit of the Great British Bake Off? We’re certainly fans over here at Takeaway Packaging. 

Brits don’t just love watching the show — GBBO has also encouraged many home bakers to whack on the oven and grease their cake tins. In 2021, there was a 53% rise in home-baking businesses nationwide. 

In 2023, 46% of craft bakers think convenience is one of the significant factors influencing consumers, with more expected to shop locally. Good news for independent bakers! 

If you’re considering starting your own home-baking business or need some guidance, we’re here to help. As the UK’s eco-friendly food packaging experts, we’ve helped numerous baking brands master their marketing with branded packaging and deliver their homemade goods sustainably with eco-friendly food packaging designed for cakes, cookies, biscuits, brownies and more.

Let’s roll with it.

Getting Started with Packaging for Baked Goods

Not all packaging is created equally. By that, we mean not all of it is safe to use with food. Complying with food safety standards is vital for many reasons, including looking out for the welfare of your customers and the quality of your baked goods.

Food-Grade Packaging for Baked Goods

Let’s look at why following food-safety standards is so vital for your home baking business. 

1. Food safety & quality — Food-grade packaging preserves the freshness, appearance and flavour of perishable goods. Food-grade packaging also prevents the growth of harmful bacteria and keeps food safe to eat against changes in temperature or oxygen and moisture levels. 
2. Preventing food & packaging waste — Food-grade packaging keeps food fresher for longer, and eco-friendly packaging helps lessen the problem of plastic waste. Plant-based materials like bagasse and Kraft are biodegradable, meaning it’s easier for your customers to dispose of them responsibly. 
3. Your reputation — Customers won’t return if food safety standards are low. Develop a reputation for providing high-quality, safe food products to increase sales and customer loyalty. 

All businesses that serve food and beverages require food-grade packaging to comply with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) guidelines. Ensure you follow these regulations. Otherwise, you could be breaking the law.

All your food packaging must be stored appropriately for health and safety. For those avid bakers based at home, storage and maintaining high food safety standards might be an issue. This is where Takeaway Packaging can help. All our facilities have an AA rating for BRCGS accreditation (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards). We store our stock in warehouses which strive to maintain the highest food safety standards. 

Related: Food Packaging Symbols Explained. 

Sustainable Baking Packaging

The vast majority of UK litter is dominated by food and drink packaging. The problem is so prolific that the government will ban single-use plastics in October 2023. Disposable cutlery, plates, bowls, polystyrene food containers and cups all fall under this ban. This means that your packaging supplies for baked goods must be eco-friendly.

Evidence has emerged that plastic packaging increases the potential for more food waste, and packaging ends up in landfills or in our ecosystems. 

Consumer habits are changing. Now more than ever, consumers care about sustainability when choosing food products. Eco-conscious customers want packaging which is naturally compostable, biodegradable or easily recyclable. 

There’s no doubt that eco-friendly baking packaging will benefit your business. In fact, 70% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, so those first eco-impressions mean a lot. You can get a huge leg up on your competition if you can prove to your customers you’re committed to sustainability. 

Related: Combatting Littering with Customised Packaging 

Branded Baking Packaging

Your packaging for baked goods needs to offer a personalised experience for customers to draw them in and encourage repeat purchases. Your doughnuts might be delectable, and your cakes are killing it, but you still need to promote your business. Branded packaging is one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to promote your brand. 

A custom, sustainable packaging design will help you:

• Build brand awareness
• Enhance customer loyalty
• Generate brand advocacy
• Increase trust and familiarity 
• Drive revenue 
• Enhanced marketing via social media
• Impress eco-conscious customers
• Advertise for free!

Use colour, logos and graphics to entice your target customers or maintain consistency for your regulars. In the age of social media, everyone is sharing their purchases with the world, so it’s even more imperative to get your packaging right. If you need a guiding hand, our experienced in-house design team will happily help you create your custom designs. 

Related: Should You Use Branded Takeaway Packaging?

Get a free design quote for custom packaging in just 48 hours. 

The Best Eco-Friendly Packaging for Baked Goods

What do I need to start a home baking business?

If you’re in the home baking business, you’ll need product-specific packaging for cakes, desserts and other delectable delights. 

Let’s look at some packaging examples to keep your baked goods fresh and delicious. 

	Cake Boxes Cakes or cake slices can be delicately designed with icing or sprinkles, so cake packaging needs to cover your entire dessert. Cake boxes will keep your goods fresh — especially our range of Kraftware cake boxes. They’re easy to open and store flat, and a useful handle holds all four sides firmly in place. Biodegradable, recyclable and compostable, these boxes are made from sustainably sourced wood pulp.
	Snack Boxes Try a sustainable snack box for brownies, pastries, flapjacks or smaller baked goods. Even if it’s marketed for savoury packaging, it can be the ideal choice for sweet treats, just like our recyclable and compostable pizza and meal boxes. Our snack boxes are lined with virgin Kraft paper, which provides greater grease resistance, so there’s no need for additional greaseproof paper. We’ve even got snack boxes with compostable, clear windows to show off your sweet and savoury bakes.
	Greaseproof Paper Greaseproof paper is indispensable when it comes to a heat-proof, non-stick surface. It’s especially ideal to keep your more resilient bakes fresh — like bread and cookies. Unfortunately, most greaseproof paper isn’t recyclable because of its silicone coating and when it’s contaminated with oil and grease. Our eco-friendly greaseproof paper is built differently. It’s fully compostable as it’s made from tightly compacted fibres, making it impermeable to oil and grease without a silicone lining. Related: Is Greaseproof Paper Recyclable?  Looking for custom greaseproof paper? Find out more about how we can help.
	Paper Bags Customers need to be able to carry around your baked goods easily. Choosing a paper bag from 80% recycled materials is the way to go. Flat-handle and twisted-handle paper bags are incredibly strong and perfect for heavy items, allowing your customers to carry their purchases around conveniently. Our paper bags are 100% compostable, biodegradable and recyclable. Showcase your brand today with a custom-printed paper bag
	Food Carriers  Transport or deliver your baked goods in a sturdy food carrier. All our food carriers are compostable and are made from Kraft board with gable or fold-down handles. Keep food fresh with secure fastenings and a crash-lock base, and save on storage space as these boxes are shipped flat-packed. Easily assembled with self-locking tabs, you can even add your own stamp on these with a custom design.

How to Make Home Baking Business a Success

When you’re starting out, it can be hard to imagine making money from selling homemade baked goods, but we’re here to help you put the “profit” in your “profiteroles”. 

If you want to follow in the footsteps of Alana Spencer’s baking business — the one from The Apprentice — we thought we’d give you some tips on achieving sweet success without Lord Sugar.

Besides packaging, here are a few other things you’ll need to think about if you want to start a home baking business to the next level:

1. Set up Your Business Correctly

Once you’ve proven your products to your friends, family and neighbours and got the right packaging, you should consider a few more things — whether your baking business becomes a side gig or your full-time occupation. 

If your solo baking project is taking off, registering as a sole trader is the best way to keep your financial affairs in order. If you’re at the stage where you’re formally employing people — not just roping in your partner or kids — it might be better to form a limited company, so speak to an adviser who’ll help you make the right decisions when establishing your business.

It’s also worth considering how you will take payments and receive your income, so you might want to set up a business bank account to help you keep track of your earnings and expenses.

2. Protect Yourself and Get Covered

You will need to consider many other elements, from liability insurance to health and safety standards, which will protect you from any of the most common mishaps in the catering industry. 

3. Make Moves with Your Marketing

Packaging and marketing go hand in hand. Your baked goods packaging can be a walking advertisement to potential new customers. Brand messaging is incredibly important. You must effectively communicate your USP (unique selling point) and brand personality to your target audience. 

Ask yourself:

Why should people buy baked goods from my brand rather than a competitor?

Your brand messaging can motivate customers to buy from you. It’s also worth thinking about how to market your business. Today, 91% of businesses use social media videos as a marketing tool, with the app TikTok having one of the widest reaches and engagement of all time.

Think about posting recipe videos on Instagram or offering baking tips and advice on your social media channels — but make sure to include that branded packaging!

Related: 7 Brilliant Benefits of Branded Takeaway Packaging

Ordering Packaging for Your Baking Brand

By now, you should have all you need to know about what you need to start your own home-baking business. Sustainability, good branding and functionality are key to making sure customers come back again and again.

Takeaway Packaging can lend you a hand with your packaging supplies for baked goods. We have low minimum order quantities for branded packaging and free next-day delivery for non-branded packaging orders over £100. Start your sustainable journey today! 

Get a free design quote from our packaging experts and make your home baking business rise! 

Not ready for branded packaging? Visit our online shop and explore a huge range of sustainable packaging solutions for cakes, cookies and more.

Food packaging is available in a multitude of materials. Each packaging material has its benefits and drawbacks, so what makes food-grade packaging different? 

Now that single-use plastic cutlery and plates are to be banned, businesses in the food service sector need to reevaluate their packaging, make sure it’s safe for use with food, and understand the importance of food-grade packaging.

As the UK’s leading food packaging experts, we’ll help you get the packaging you need to serve your food safely and sustainably. Let’s get started!

Related: Food Packaging Symbols Explained 

What Does Food-Grade Mean in Packaging?

Food-grade is a term used to describe packaging designed to come into contact with food items. Food-grade packaging is manufactured and stored in a way that keeps it safe and hygienic for use with food or beverages.

The materials used to create food-grade packaging need to be non-toxic so that harmful chemicals don’t leach into the food they’re protecting. These materials need to meet industry standard benchmarks to ensure that consumers are protected, so it might surprise you that not all packaging used for food is made to this standard by default. 

What’s the Difference between Food-Grade and Food-Safe?

While the terms “food-grade” and “food-safe” are used somewhat interchangeably, they don’t necessarily mean the same thing:

Food-grade refers to materials and products that are safe for use in contact with food. The packaging materials meet certain government regulations and standards set by agencies such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the US or the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK. These regulations ensure that the materials and products are safe for use with edible products and that they are manufactured under strict guidelines and quality controls to ensure their safety.

Food-safe, on the other hand, refers to materials and products that are safe to use with food products and will not contaminate or affect the quality of the food in any way. This means that the materials or products are free of harmful chemicals or toxins and will not leach any substances into the food.

Essentially, all food-grade materials and products are considered “food-safe”, but not all food-safe materials and products are necessarily “food-grade”.

Discover food-grade packaging in our online shop.

How Can You Tell If Packaging Is Food-Grade?

As per official food hygiene standards, “food must be transported in packaging or containers that protect it from contamination”. Since not all food packaging is food-grade or food-safe, how do you determine if your packaging is safe for use?

There are a couple of easy ways to tell:

	The Food-Safe Logo Food contact materials — including packaging — are sometimes marked with “for food contact” or the food-safe logo. This is an internationally recognised symbol that indicates materials considered safe for food contact.
	BRCGS Accreditation Food packaging suppliers who comply with additional Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standards, such as BRCGS or IFS, will have met other requirements for the safety verification of the materials.

Our storage facilities have an AA rating for BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) accreditation. This rating means our stock is stored in a warehouse that must maintain high food safety standards. Restaurants, supermarkets and other large retailers recognise the BRCGS accreditation as proof of appropriate food safety measures. 

Related: Natasha’s Law for Food Packaging 

Why Is Food-Grade Packaging Important?

Using food-grade packaging isn’t simply a matter of compliance. There are numerous other advantages to using packaging that’s safe for use with food:

1. Food Safety

Food-grade packaging protects food products from contamination and preserves their freshness. Food-grade materials help to keep food products safe to eat by protecting them from external factors such as light, oxygen, moisture, and temperature changes. 

2. Quality Preservation

Not only does food-grade packaging prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and other microorganisms, keeping food-safe to eat, but it also helps maintain the appearance, flavour, and nutritional value of food products.

3. Compliance with Regulations

Businesses serving food and beverages need food-grade packaging to comply with various regulations and guidelines, such as those set by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). This ensures that food products are fit for human consumption, whether sold in supermarkets or at food stalls.

4. Environmental Protection

Food-grade packaging has an environmental function too. It helps prevent food waste by keeping food fresher for longer, but it’s predominantly created using eco-friendly materials such as bioplastics, Kraft, cardboard and paper, as well as other plant-based materials like bagasse.

5. Brand Reputation

Using food-grade packaging can help to uphold your reputation by maintaining high standards for food safety and professional presentation. In the way you can use your food hygiene rating to promote your business, developing a reputation for providing safe, high-quality food products and packaging can increase customer loyalty and sales.

Related: Why Are Phthalates So Dangerous?

Examples of Food-Safe Packaging Materials

Food packaging standards must be upheld so that customers are safe when they use food containers and cutlery. The good news is that several different materials can be considered food-grade, pending carefully managed manufacturing, testing and certification.

	Cardboard Kraft Board Cardboard is one of the most popular materials available for food-grade packaging. It’s strong, lightweight, and versatile. Since it’s made from natural resources, it’s inherently recyclable, compostable and biodegradable.  This makes both materials ideal for making food-grade pizza boxes that we line with virgin Kraft paper for increased resistance to oil, grease and moisture. Plus, Kraft board can be shaped into various packaging products, such as Kraft food trays, noodle boxes and dessert packaging.
	Kraft Paper Kraft paper has numerous applications in the food service sector. It’s recyclable and naturally biodegradable, making it ideal for use with takeaway food products. Made from wood pulp, it’s also domestically and commercially compostable. Check out our paper bags and our specialised eco-friendly greaseproof paper to see Kraft paper in action.  Each can be custom printed with water or vegetable-based inks to showcase your branding without harming the environment.
	Bagasse Bagasse is a byproduct of sugarcane production, so it’s a natural, renewable, and biodegradable material. Durable and versatile, it’s a highly effective replacement for polystyrene food packaging, which is banned. Since it’s made from natural, non-toxic materials, bagasse is considered safe for food contact — ours is certified food grade. Our bagasse clamshell containers are great for keeping hot food warm and fresh. The bagasse plates and bowls are also ideal for hot and cold food items.
	Plastic Plastic has long been a popular material for food packaging, so much so that approximately 60% of all plastics produced worldwide are used for packaging food.  It is lightweight, durable and inexpensive. Plus, it can be moulded into various packaging products, like our range of Fastpac packaging. It’s microwavable and comes with a lid to prevent spoilage and contamination, keeping food fresher for longer. However, there are plenty of downsides to using some kinds of plastic packaging too.
	Metals Aluminium and stainless steel are the metals most commonly used in food packaging. Takeaway food businesses heavily utilise aluminium foil trays for all kinds of hot food products. While they’re effective at retaining heat, they’re relatively expensive and aren’t always considered food-grade, so be careful where you purchase metal-based food packaging. Food-grade packaging alternatives include Kraft board food boxes.
	Glass Glass is durable, reusable and recyclable. It’s also easy to clean, so it’s great for maximising food hygiene. It’s considered food-safe and commonly used with beverages, but compared to other forms of packaging, it’s far more expensive and easily breakable. Therefore, it’s not the best form of takeaway packaging. Glass food packaging is best suited to storing food or drinks in a controlled environment, like at home. Food-grade alternatives that are more portable include bioplastic cups.

Related: The Best Packaging Materials for Takeaway Food and Drinks 

Buying Food-Grade Packaging Online

Food-grade packaging keeps your customers safe while protecting your business and the environment. With Takeaway Packaging, you can maintain the highest food safety and hygiene standards with our sustainable food and drinks packaging. We stock a wide selection of packaging suitable for all kinds of cuisine!

Discover stylish and sustainable food-grade packaging with the UK’s eco-friendly food packaging experts. Get in touch for more information and a free, no-obligation branded packaging quote. Drop us an email or call 01753 655344.

Are you serving the best burgers in town? Then you need the best burger packaging too! It’s not just about having the best burger boxes, either. There are plenty of other considerations to make, like what packaging you’ll use for fries, sides, sauces and drinks.

This guide will help you find the best, most sustainable packaging for your restaurant, burger van, street food stall or dark kitchen. Let’s go!

Related: The Best Packaging for Desserts

Getting Started: Burger Box Sizes

Burgers come in all shapes and sizes, from sandwiches and sliders to double or triple-deckers. This can make packaging your patties a challenge, and that’s before you’ve factored in the other things you’ll need to give your customers an unforgettable experience, like greaseproof paper and paper bags.

No matter what your menu looks like, you need the right packaging to ensure your customers enjoy their burgers while they’re hot and fresh, not cold or — even worse — soggy. 

Here’s a guide to burger boxes and the materials and sizes for different food products:

Size	Best For	We Recommend
4×4″ (10x10cm)	Small Burgers   (e.g. Sliders, Bao Buns)	4×4” Burger Box (Kraft)
5×5″ (12x12cm)	Premium Burgers   (e.g. Hamburgers, Double Cheeseburgers, Triple Cheeseburgers)	5×5” Premium Burger Box (Kraft)
9.5×4.5″ (244x122cm)	Large Premium Burgers and Meals   (e.g. Salads, Meals, Hot Dogs, Kebabs, Burritos)	9.5×4.5” Premium Meal Box (Kraft)
6×6″ (15x15cm)	Regular Burgers   (e.g. Hamburgers, Cheeseburgers, Quarter Pounders)	6×6″ Clamshell Burger Box (Bagasse)
9×6″ (23x15cm)	Large Burgers and Meals   (e.g. Salads, Meals, Hot Dogs, Kebabs, Burritos)	9×6″ Clamshell Meal Box (Bagasse)
8×8 ″(20x20cm)	Extra Large Burgers   (e.g. Oversized Burgers, Loaded Burgers)	8×8” Clamshell Burger Box (Bagasse)
9×6″ (23x15cm) with Compartments	Regular Burgers with a Side   (e.g. Burgers with Fries or Sides)	9×6″ Clamshell Meal Box (Bagasse)

Each of these burger boxes has unique benefits thanks to implementing various eco-friendly materials and design configurations.

Check out our entire range of sustainable hot food packaging.

Different Materials for Burger Boxes

Once you know which burger boxes you need for your items, you must consider the materials and design that best suit your brand and budget.

Below, we’ve outlined the most popular styles of burger boxes, including our most cost-effective packaging and our premium packaging:

	Bagasse Burger Boxes These boxes are made using bagasse, a naturally renewable material from sugarcane pulp. Simple, effective and affordable, this kind of packaging is popular with eco-conscious businesses looking to replace polystyrene burger boxes, and is 100% biodegradable and compostable.
	Kraft Burger Boxes Made from fluted Kraft board, this packaging is resistant to oil, grease and moisture. These heavy-duty boxes have a rustic aesthetic that complements their contents while protecting food from the elements, thanks to the lock-in tabs on the lid. These boxes are 100% recyclable, biodegradable and compostable.
	Cardboard Burger Boxes This premium burger box design features a collapsible design for ease of storage. The vents in the lid allow hot air to escape, so your burgers don’t go soggy, but the fluted cardboard design insulates your food products, keeping them hot and fresh for longer. These boxes are 100% recyclable, biodegradable and compostable.

You can customise these burger boxes! Get in touch for a free design quote.

Can You Recycle Burger Boxes?

Most burger boxes are recyclable, but only if they’re unspoilt. Boxes stained with grease or oil won’t be accepted by local authorities for recycling. If the material has been contaminated, you should dispose of this kind of packaging in general waste.

This creates a pretty clear problem — the best burgers are dripping with cheese and saturated with sauce, making it almost impossible to preserve the packaging. That’s why it’s a good idea to use greaseproof paper to wrap your burgers or line burger boxes. This will help maximise recyclability and keep your planet-positive packaging intact.

If you opt for bagasse burger boxes, it’s important to note that they aren’t recyclable. This packaging material degrades naturally in as little as 90 days under the right conditions. As such, the material cannot be recycled or repurposed. 

Instead, bagasse packaging can be composted domestically or commercially, even when spoilt. If all else fails, they can be thrown in general waste without leaving your customers feeling guilty. This packaging will degrade naturally into totally organic, non-toxic elements.

Related: The Best Packaging Materials for Takeaway Food and Drinks in 2022

The Benefits of Using Cardboard Burger Boxes

While the number of retail outlets is falling, there are significantly more fast-food restaurants on the high street. With more rivals to contend with, it’s harder to make your brand stand out. One of the ways to differentiate yourself from the competition on a budget is through sustainable packaging.

There are numerous advantages to using cardboard food packaging for burgers and other hot food products:

• Cardboard Is a Sustainable Material

Cardboard is made from paper, and since the paper is derived from trees, it’s naturally renewable since trees can be replanted. Our packaging — including our Kraft burger boxes — is crafted using materials from responsibly managed forests. Opting for cardboard packaging is much greener than using plastic packaging like polystyrene clamshell boxes, like those banned by Scotland in 2022.

• Durability and Functionality

Our food-grade cardboard is 100% safe for use with all kinds of food items. The fluted cardboard and Kraft board we use can easily withstand the weight of even the heftiest burgers without tearing or collapsing. Thanks to some neat design additions like lock-in tabs and foldable lids, our burger packaging is excellent for speedy over-the-counter service.

• Convenience and Practicality

Portability is essential for takeaway packaging. Your burgers need to be easy to transport, either via over-the-counter service or delivery. This makes cardboard an obvious choice for all burger boxes, pizza boxes and takeaway food carriers. Cardboard might be lightweight, but it will effectively insulate its contents, keeping food hot and fresh until it’s ready to eat.

• Cardboard Is Easy to Dispose Of

Cardboard is easily recyclable at home, but if spoiled, it’s also easy to dispose of responsibly. Cardboard can be composted at home or an industrial facility and decompose naturally, hundreds of years faster than any plastic packaging.

Moreover, cardboard is easy to print, giving you a range of branded packaging options for a whole host of packaging products and accessories. If you’re not ready for printed packaging, the natural finish of our stock packaging is an excellent choice for eco-conscious brands.

Check out our online shop for more eco-friendly packaging.

Case Study: Smash ‘n’ Slide Burgers

We helped Smash ‘n’ Slide create packaging that packs a punch! The custom printed greaseproof paper we produced features a vibrant repeating pattern on a deep black background, complementing their indulgent burgers with bold branding.

Greaseproof paper is highly versatile and can be used for various applications. This is handy if you’re selling more than just burgers — you can use it to line Kraft food trays for things like loaded nachos and fries. 

The best part is that our greaseproof paper is eco-friendly. It’s not like traditional papers that have a silicone coating. Instead, our product is created using 100% virgin pulp and is manufactured with a specialised oil protection system of tightly compacted fibres. This makes it impervious to oil, grease, fat and moisture without needing a silica-based coating — a win-win for your customers and the environment.

Interested in branded packaging? Get in touch for a free design quote.

Eco-Friendly Accessories for Burger Restaurants

Now that more single-use plastics are set to be banned in the UK, including plastic plates, cups and cutlery, businesses in the food service sector need to find alternatives for all sorts of everyday products, and fast.

Here are a few eco-friendly essentials that can help you get ahead of the game before more single-use plastic items are banned:

	Kraft Paper Trays The classic burger, side and beverage combo wouldn’t be complete without a hearty portion of chips or fries, but how do you sustainably serve this kind of food? We stock a range of Kraft paper trays made from sturdy Kraft board that’s both recyclable and biodegradable. They’re available in various styles and sizes to suit all kinds of extras you might sell alongside your core offering.
	Kraft Chip Cups Looking for something easy for customers to grab and go? Our chip cups are practical, stylish and sustainable.  They’re lined with PLA (polylactic acid), a plant-based alternative to PE (polyethylene) linings. Not only does this lining provide an effective barrier against oil, grease and moisture, but it also allows customers to dispose of their packaging responsibly.
	Biodegradable Cutlery Burgers are best enjoyed as a hands-on experience, and most sides make perfect finger food. That said, your customers might need cutlery to enjoy some of your menu items. Our biodegradable cutlery is available in different materials and includes forks, knives and spoons. All of which can be purchased separately or as cutlery sets.
	Biodegradable Cups Our biodegradable cups for cold beverages give your customers the ultimate eco-friendly experience.  With a selection of matching cup lids, you can prevent leaks or spills when your customers are transporting their drinks. You can make their experience even better with our two-cup carriers or four-cup carriers, which are 100% recyclable and compostable.
	Eco-Friendly Straws  When your customers want a refreshing beverage to accompany their food, ensure you hand them their drink with one of our wrapped paper straws.  Our biodegradable straws are the perfect alternative if you’re looking for something more similar to plastic straws. Made from PLA, they’re more sturdy than paper and are well-suited to carbonated beverages and smoothies.
	Biodegradable Napkins Help your customers keep things clean and tidy (even with the dirtiest burgers) with our eco-friendly napkins.  They’re available in a full spectrum of colours, so you can keep branding consistent without purchasing a fully custom design. However, putting your logo on your napkins is a great way to reinforce your branding.

Branded Burger Boxes, Bags and More

Want to give your burger packaging a boost? Branded food boxes and custom printed greaseproof paper give you a cost-effective way to promote your business locally and via social media. Our custom printed paper bags are also an excellent choice if you want to maximise brand exposure in your local area.

At Takeaway Packaging, we create fully customised packaging that protects the planet. We use water and vegetable-based inks to print vibrant designs and organic, eco-friendly materials that won’t compromise your brand’s environmental values.

Check out our hot food packaging for burgers, hot dogs, pizzas and much more. Interested in branded packaging? Get in touch via email or 01753 655344 for a free design quote today.

Need a delivery before Christmas?

Please place your order before 3pm on Monday 19^th December, to allow for longer than usual delivery times.

Any orders placed between Monday 19^th and Friday 23^rd December will continue to be processed and despatched, but we are unable to confirm when the delivery will arrive with you.

Any orders placed after 1pm on Friday 23^rd will be processed and despatched on Wednesday 28^th December.

Postal Strikes & Courier Delays

Please note that due to the continued postal strikes and the affect this is having on our courier companies, we are experiencing longer than usual delivery times.  Although these are out of our control, we do share your frustration with the situation and would like to apologise to all our customers in advance for any inconvenience.

Thank you for your continued support.  We would like to wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.

The Takeaway Packaging Team

The festive season is almost upon us and what’s more Christmassy than a Christmas market? 

Christmas markets in the UK are incredibly popular, with Manchester Christmas markets generating £306 million in revenue annually. That’s why it’s crucial to stand out as a street food vendor at such a good time of year for business. One way you can achieve this is through sustainable packaging.

Whatever your takeaway packaging needs are for this year’s Christmas markets in the UK, we have the answer. Let’s get stuck in.

Sustainable Packaging for Christmas

In 2021, searches for “sustainable Christmas” skyrocketed 1700% between the 5th-11th of December. It’s no secret that consumers are becoming more and more environmentally conscious. But have you factored sustainability into your business? 

The trend is set to continue in 2022 and beyond as the majority of consumers actively try to make a sustainable or ethical choice. That’s why it makes sense to appeal to an eco-minded audience to drive sales and promote planet positivity. 

Here’s the planet-positive packaging you need as a street food vendor this Christmas!

Christmas Cups for Hot Beverages

Coffee shop owner? Mulled wine stall operator? Our biodegradable coffee cups are already a hit with our customers, so we decided to add a little Christmas cheer. They’re lined with Ingeo™ PLA, a biodegradable bioplastic made from plants as the ultimate substitute for oil-based plastic. With the same characteristics and performance as plastic, our cups are gloriously greener. 

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, try the 8oz snow-white cup for hot beverages, or be seen in green in the 12oz size. Opt for Rudolph red in 16oz with a Kraft cup sleeve for the larger drinks to jingle those eco-bells. 

Sustainability doesn’t stop at just the cups, either. We’ve also got eco-friendly stirrers, carriers, and condiments to impress your eco-conscious customers. 

Ring The Bells for Bagasse Packaging

Bagasse is a great example of organic packaging — it’s a natural by-product of the sugarcane industry. After the sugar cane stalks have been crushed to extract their juice, the pulp is retained to create eco-friendly packaging. 

The upshot is that bagasse has a renewable growth rate of between two to three times per year and can be home-composted — a real sustainable winner. It’s an ideal replacement to polystyrene packaging, which, aside from being bad for the environment, can contribute to health problems when ingested. 

Our bagasse burger boxes and meal boxes have a hinged lid with a tuck-in tab for fast over-the-counter service during busy periods. The bagasse range is also safe to use in the freezer and microwave. From compostable bagasse plates to compartmentalised meal boxes, it’s never been easier to serve sustainability. 

Colourful Christmas Napkins

Provide all your customers with environmentally-friendly paper napkins alongside their festive food, available in various vivid colours. All our napkins are 100% recyclable, compostable and biodegradable, so that eco-conscious consumers can stay clean and green. Pair your napkins with biodegradable cutlery and make your entire range a spreader of sustainable cheer.

Stick to staple Christmas colours like red and burgundy, or be tree-mendous in pine green. With a rainbow of colours to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Be Santa’s Sustainable Helper

No matter what kind of input you’re having at Christmas markets, make sure you’re using sustainable Christmas packaging for your food and drinks this year. With a range of cups, trays and accessories available in various sizes and festive styles — plus a wealth of unbranded packaging options — we’ve got you covered!

Go guilt-free with our sustainable range of food containers or coffee cups this Christmas, and never look back!

Pizza boxes are made of cardboard, which means they’re recyclable. Unfortunately, this is only a half-truth, depending on the condition of the pizza box. 

Cardboard is universally recyclable, but you cannot recycle it when it’s contaminated with oil, like from a greasy pizza box. Oil, grease and food are difficult to remove and bind the cardboard fibres together. For cardboard manufacturers to recycle pizza boxes, you must separate the individual cardboard fibres.

Takeaway Packaging is here to give you the low-down on recycling pizza boxes and how to provide your customers with easy-to-dispose-of, compostable and recyclable pizza boxes. Yes, they really do exist. 

Why Can’t Greasy Pizza Boxes Be Recycled?

When recycling glass, metal or plastic, the heat processes are used to burn away food residue, but paper recycling is slightly different. 

Cardboard and paper spend a significant amount of time in storage before they are processed. The food and grease residue ends up going rancid after a while and attracts the presence of insects and other animals. 

The cardboard is then washed with soapy water and a mixture of chemicals to remove any coloured inks or glue and mixed in a slurry with water. But it takes a fair amount of scrubbing to eradicate oil and grease. Therefore, the slurry becomes a mix of water with oil floating to the top, and it’s no longer possible to separate oil from paper fibres. Depending on the level of contamination, an entire batch can be ruined by greasy pizza boxes. 

What About Wish-Cycling?

One of the biggest problems with recycling contamination is “wish-cycling”. This is when people put non-recyclable waste in their recycling bins because they assume it’s recyclable or at least want it to be. It makes sense. We all want to feel less guilty about that Domino’s last night.

But, a single contaminated item can cause problems in the recycling process. It might be spotted early on and tossed away. However, the likelihood is it’ll end up contaminating a batch of clean cardboard. 

In fact, “wish-cycling” is such a big problem that bin men in Lincolnshire refuse to empty recycling bins if they see a Mcdonalds bag or pizza box in the rubbish. Many bin men are fed up with rifling through bins for greasy takeaway containers. Aspirational recycling has become so prolific that many councils have followed Lincolnshire council’s example in refusing to empty recycling contaminated with greasy pizza boxes. 

So, what’s the solution to the contaminated recycling problem? How can we avoid “wish-cycling?” It’s actually pretty simple. 

How You Can Make Your Pizza Boxes Recyclable

To ensure recycling isn’t contaminated, you can cut off the greasy bottoms of pizza boxes and only throw the clean tops in the recycling. It still means that recyclable content ends up in the landfill, though. 

If you’re a street food or pizza vendor, there’s a compostable and recyclable pizza box that allows your customers to dispose of their takeaway packaging guilt-free.

Our recyclable and compostable meal and pizza boxes are something else. Why? Because we’ve reworked the original design. Your standard cardboard pizza box has virgin Kraft paper on the outside and test paper (recycled paper) on the inside. The old-school pizza boxes need extra greaseproof paper between the food and the box, and even then, grease still soaks through. 

We’ve flipped the Kraft and test paper so the Kraft paper lines the inside of the box in our version. This way, the box can come into direct contact with food, providing a much higher grease resistance. The virgin Kraft paper is smoother than test paper which means tightly packed fibres make it far harder for grease to penetrate. 

These pizza boxes are made from 73% recycled paper and are 100% recyclable and even compostable. As the surge in eco-conscious consumerism continues, it’s time to eliminate the greasy pizza box grey area and dispose of eco-friendly waste sustainably! 

Your pizza boxes don’t have to be boring. Go custom with our in-house design team and be seen as green! Minimum order quantity of 2000 units.

The takeaway and fast-food industry is growing rapidly — especially during the global pandemic where Brits increased their spend on takeaways by 42%. We’re a nation that loves a good takeaway on a Friday night so much that it’s almost ingrained in our culture. 

But, takeaways aren’t just for savoury meals — they’re for sweeter treats too. The bakery industry in the UK alone is worth a whopping £3 billion. If you’re a dessert vendor, you’ll know that baked goods come in all shapes and sizes and are often very delicate. Icing or intricate toppings fall victim to inadequate packaging, arriving in your customer’s hands in bits and pieces.

Cookies, cakes, desserts and more rely on their presentation to drive sales. Colourful desserts, in particular, have become increasingly popular due to social media trends — so maintaining presentation is one of the biggest priorities in dessert packaging. 

We’re also moving into the age of sustainability, where customers are actively seeking to shop eco-consciously. So, the best packaging for your desserts needs to be functional, protective and eco-friendly to impress your consumer base. It’s time to ditch the plastic and rethink your cookies and cake packaging for the future. Let’s kick things off with a compilation of the best sustainable packaging alternatives for desserts. 

Captivating Cakes & Cookies Packaging

One of the most important aspects of cake packaging is to make sure your desserts are covered. Invest in a specific cake box or containers with leak-proof lids to keep your goods fresh and in good condition. 

Plastic packaging is often a popular choice, but it’s not sustainable. We’re already producing over 380 million tonnes of plastic waste per year as a planet — so it’s time to look at more environmentally friendly options. 

For an eco-friendly alternative to plastic packaging, transition to Kraftware. Kraft material is made from wood pulp, sourced from responsibly managed and sustainable forests. Kraftware is just as durable as plastic and remarkably tear-resistant.

Our range of Kraftware cake boxes fits the bill. They’re easy to open and store flat, with a useful handle which locks all four sides into place. These cake boxes are also recyclable, biodegradable and compostable — perfect for eco-conscious customers. Choose between sizes 140x140mm and 200x200mm to effectively protect and innovatively present your cakes.

How Do You Package Desserts?

When it comes to dessert packaging, feel free to think outside the box a little bit. Specific packaging marketed for savoury products is actually the ideal choice for your sweet treats. 

Consider biodegradable meal boxes if you sell cookies or other resilient baked goods like brownies and flapjacks, consider biodegradable meal boxes. Meal boxes are sturdy packaging options which provide easy access to your delectable bites. 

Our range of pizza and meal boxes are food-grade standard thanks to a clever design tweak. Most cardboard food boxes require additional greaseproof paper, but we’ve lined the inside with virgin Kraft paper, providing higher grease resistance. Customers can also enjoy your products guilt-free as all our pizza and meal boxes are recyclable or compostable. 

Our client, Bueno Gelato, used one of our pizza boxes with a custom design with the help of our in-house creative team. Even the inks used are water-based and eco-friendly. All that’s required is a little imagination and the switch to sustainability has never been easier. 

Packaging for Other Desserts

Desserts often have a reputation for looking as good as they taste. If you want your treats to be on display to your customers, utilise one of our salad boxes which features a PLA window. PLA (Polylactic acid) is derived from renewable resources like sugar cane or cornstarch — so even if it’s clear, it doesn’t have to be plastic! 

Before you buy your new packaging for your cookies, cakes or desserts, ask your chosen supplier for samples. This means you can test your dessert containers yourself, ensuring they protect your products adequately and seal in freshness. 

Takeaway Packaging is committed to planet-positive packaging. Browse our full range of products to discover your new sustainable dessert packaging today.

The sandwich is a British lunchtime staple. Sandwiches are easy to make, filling and portable — which explains why it’s 42% of the nation’s go-to lunch. Invented in the 18th Century by John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, as a convenient way to eat and multitask, now, the simple sandwich boasts worldwide popularity. 

Picking up a supermarket sandwich is an effortless way to get lunch sorted for the workday. But, supermarkets and other retailers often use paperboard packaging lined with plastic to package their sandwiches. For the eco-conscious consumer, this makes disposing of sandwich packaging an unnecessary hassle.

To recycle sandwich packaging, you must remove the paperboard from the transparent plastic. Only the paperboard is recyclable, whereas the clear plastic goes straight into the bin.

With the UK throwing away 96.6 billion pieces of plastic annually, not everyone will bother with the fiddly process of disassembling their sandwich packaging. 

As a food retailer, you can start appealing to your eco-conscious market using compostable sandwich bags — which are easy to dispose of. Not only will your customers enjoy their mouthwatering sandwiches, but they’ll also feel guilt-free about throwing away their sandwich packaging afterwards. Instead, customers can give back to the planet by composting their sandwich packaging, allowing it to biodegrade naturally. 

If you’re keen on being greener, consider some sustainable sandwich packaging ideas to inspire you to take the leap. 

Which Packaging Material Is Best for Sandwiches?

Greaseproof paper is one of the most popular packaging options for sandwiches on the go. As the name suggests, greaseproof paper soaks up oil and grease and prevents sandwiches from going soggy. It also provides a useful way to hold and eat the sandwich without causing a mess. 

Greaseproof Greatness

If your business specialises in fresh takeaway sandwiches, greaseproof paper is a cost-effective way to serve your delectable delights. 

Unfortunately, ordinary greaseproof paper isn’t recyclable. This is due to its silicone coating, which can’t be processed by recycling machinery. However, Takeaway Packaging has a sustainable solution. It’s eco-friendly greaseproof paper. 

So what makes our greaseproof paper eco-friendly? Well, for starters, ours doesn’t have a silicone lining. The lining on our greaseproof paper is 100% virgin pulp from responsibly managed forests. The fibres are tightly woven to prevent moisture or oil from permeating the surface. When standard greaseproof paper comes into contact with greasy or oily food, you can’t recycle it. It’s spoiled during usage, so it needs to go straight into the bin. With contaminated recycling becoming a considerable problem, make the disposal process greener and easier for your customers. 

Greaseproof paper doesn’t have to be boring, either! Make your company stand out with custom branding on your paper and engage your customers with a vivid and striking design. 

Sustainable Sandwich Bags

We get it. Some sandwiches look so good — you want to show them off. Sandwich bags with plastic windows are perfect for displaying and protecting your food. But, hang on… plastic? That’s an environmental no-no, surely? 

Not anymore. Our sustainable brown sandwich bags feature a PLA window (Polylactic acid) derived from renewable, organic sources — like sugarcane or cornstarch. 

The PLA window is commercially compostable, and the paper bag can be recycled or composted at home. Available in 8” and 10” sizes, we’ve even got a compostable baguette bag and white glassine window bags too. 

Select Your Sandwich Packaging

When you’re choosing your packaging for sandwiches, it’s essential to think about the type of product you’re selling. For instance, toasties and paninis would benefit from our Hot Kraft Paper Bags — grease resistant and breathable to maintain freshness. Our Kraft paperboard tray is perfect for serving up ready-to-eat subs packed with scrumptious fillings. 

In the era of eco-consciousness, provide your customers with an easy, eco-friendly way to discard your sandwich packaging. By playing your part in protecting the planet, you’re helping others do their bit — investing in a greener future for the packaging industry. 

For more sustainable takeaway packaging, browse our range of hot and cold food containers to keep your food looking delicious and tasting fresh.

In October 2015, a five-pence fee for plastic carrier bags came into effect in England, requiring all supermarkets and large stores to charge a minimum of 5p for every single-use carrier bag they gave out.

Since the law’s introduction, we have seen several developments. The plastic bag charge increased to 10p per bag in April 2021 and was extended to all shops, not just supermarkets.

So has the UK plastic bag charge worked? Yes, it has!

Since the scheme was introduced, the number of bags sold by major supermarkets has decreased by more than 95% in England. 

But what does this mean for the future? Will selling plastic bags be banned altogether? Will supermarkets return to using paper bags like those used before plastic bags became popular? Let’s find out.

Related: The Facts: Fast Food Packaging Waste Statistics

Why Was the Plastic Bag Charge Introduced?

To understand where we’re heading, we need to know why a charge for plastic bags was introduced. Before the law was introduced in 2015, more than 7.6 billion single-use carrier bags were given to customers by major supermarkets in England.

That accounts for a lot of plastic waste, most of which has ended up in landfills, even though some plastic bags are recyclable. This is one of the main reasons why the scheme was introduced — to help protect the environment.

The government aimed to reduce our collective reliance on single-use carrier bags and the litter associated with them by encouraging people to reuse bags and carriers. Ultimately, the campaign has successfully heightened public awareness of the issues surrounding single-use plastic bags and the potential damage they cause.

Are Plastic Bags Bad for the Environment?

The plastic carrier bags used by supermarkets in the UK are made with polyethylene (PE), a product of the fossil fuel industry. Even if you opt for a recycled plastic bag, this kind of material takes over 20 years to decompose, sometimes far longer.

Much of the plastic products and packaging in circulation today will be around for centuries. From the moment they’re manufactured, plastic bags have uncertain futures. Once they’ve fulfilled their initial purpose, it’s left to the consumer to decide their fate — the vast majority of plastic bags end up in general waste.

This is mainly because they perish quickly — splitting, ripping or tearing as part of general use. Not only is this inconvenient, but it also raises questions for consumers about what to do with plastic bags once they’re no longer fit for their original purpose.

With this in mind, it’s essential to consider how the population feels about being charged for carrier bags.

How Do People Feel about the Plastic Bag Charge?

Initially, it was no surprise that many people resented paying for bags that were once handed out for free. There were reports of shoppers stealing plastic bags to avoid paying, but large retailers could face fines if they don’t charge for plastic bags less than 70 microns thick.

On the other hand, most Britons support the plastic bag charge. Respondents said they’re actively trying to cut down on the plastic they use and would support further government policies to reduce plastic usage.

In addition, half of Brits say they would pay more for products with eco-friendly packaging, while two-thirds of Britons think that all UK companies should be required by law to use packaging that isn’t harmful to the environment.

With this level of consumer support, it’s clear that people are more concerned about the environment than in previous years.

Related: Recyclable vs Compostable vs Biodegradable Packaging: What’s the Difference?

When Are You Not Charged for a Carrier Bag?

Sometimes, the single-use carrier bag charge doesn’t apply. The law states that retailers are not required to charge for the following:

• Paper Bags
• Sealed transit bags used for alcohol and tobacco
• Bags which only contain certain items that may cause a safety risk.

The latter includes unwrapped food, such as raw meat and fish, prescription medicines, uncovered blades, seeds, bulbs and flowers, although for the most part, there will be a charge for a plastic carrier bag.

The former — paper bags — pose an opportunity for businesses to avoid the plastic bag charge while providing convenient, disposable carriers that don’t harm the environment.

Where Does the Plastic Bag Charge Go?

If you’re wondering where the money from the plastic bag charge goes, most retailers donate plastic bag charges to charities. The government expects retailers to donate some or all of the proceeds from plastic bag sales to good causes. Still, it isn’t mandatory, and retailers are allowed to deduct reasonable costs.

Does Charging for Plastic Bags Benefit the Environment?

The plastic bag charge was designed to reduce plastic waste and minimise plastic pollution, so does charging for plastic bags actually benefit the environment?

Plastic bag charges have reduced the number of single-use plastic bags sold by supermarkets, meaning fewer plastic bags are in circulation. In turn, this has reduced waste, litter and pollution caused by non-biodegradable bags. 

If fewer plastic bags are sold, then there’s less demand. This impacts manufacturing and production, which is good news for the planet’s ecosystems. The production of plastic bags relies on fractional distillation, a process that contributes to environmental pollution and invariably relies on non-renewable fossil fuels.

In addition, studies indicate that charging for plastic bags has increased support among consumers for similar charges to reduce plastic waste. Now, most countries are tackling the plastic bag issue by charging for plastic bags, thus reducing plastic waste.

The overall effect has reinforced the notion that plastic packaging harms the environment. So what alternatives are available to plastic bags?

Related: The Good and Bad Points of Plastic: When Should You Use Plastic Packaging?

 

Are There Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Plastic Bags?

There are a few ways consumers can avoid single-use plastic bags. When shopping, ordering takeaway food or engaging in any activity that requires the limited use of a carrier bag, consumers can:

• Reuse plastic bags
• Use paper bags
• Use cardboard food carriers
• Opt for a “bag for life”
• Bring a tote bag or rucksack.

The upside is avoiding the plastic bag charge, but each method has its downsides. Some options limit convenience and practicality, while others simply aren’t available to consumers.

Recent studies have suggested that some plastic bag alternatives may be more harmful than their plastic predecessors.

Sounds crazy, right? 

A life cycle assessment comparing single-use plastic bags, plastic “bags for life”, cotton-based carriers (such as tote bags) and paper shopping bags found that cotton and paper had the highest negative impacts on fossil fuel use.

Does this mean governments and world leaders are wrong to charge for or even ban plastic bags? There’s more to it than that.