Making the switch from foam/plastic dining products

Many foodservice establishments depend on serving dishes in carry away packaging. However, with legislative restrictions on foam and single-use plastics becoming more prevalent across the U.S., foodservice operators are now faced with the challenge of finding alternative solutions to the products they are accustomed to using. Choosing products that are recyclable or compostable can help foodservice operators navigate these restrictions.

Finding quality alternatives to foam and single-use plastic products

Cities and states across the U.S. have enacted legislative restrictions on foam and single-use plastic products—such as expanded polystyrene (EPS), plastic bags and plastic straws in foodservice applications—in an effort to curb environmental impact and pollution. These regulations are pushing businesses towards adopting more sustainable packaging alternatives. Some restrictions prevent foodservice establishments from purchasing and distributing plates, bowls, cups, containers and more that are not recyclable, compostable or reusable. 

Foodservice operators must adhere to evolving packaging regulations and, while doing so, can also make a more responsible choice.

Huhtamaki, a global food packaging specialist, can help. Huhtamaki tracks bills and legislation pertaining to packaging regulations and single-use product restrictions, and actively innovates to provide customers with more sustainable food packaging solutions, such as molded fiber products. 

Functional products that are thoughtfully designed 

Huhtamaki offers products that are recyclable or compostable and are produced with recycled content and renewable resources. Additionally, the company strives to help operators balance performance, packaging legislation and cost-effectiveness when choosing alternative food packaging solutions. 

For foodservice operators making the switch to foam alternative dining products such as cafeteria trays, Huhtamaki offers an alternative to foam solutions—molded fiber cafeteria trays. SAVADAY^® molded fiber compartment cafeteria trays are compostable and made from at least 25% recycled material and 75% renewable resources. Additionally, the trays are embossed with the BPI logo and compostable message, providing clear certification for commercial compost facilities.  

SAVADAY^® cafeteria trays are available in the traditional rectangular shape as well as round plates, with a drink compartment in the middle of the round tray to help prevent bending. Additionally, the product is available in shrink-wrapped packaging with smaller packs that provide easier handling and reduced costs by allowing higher volume per truckload and reducing freight costs.

Huhtamaki is proud to help foodservice operators make the best food packaging choices with options that are recyclable, compostable and produced with recycled content or made from renewable resources. Huhtamaki believes that packaging is essential to protect food, people and the planet, and strives to be the first choice in sustainable packaging for foodservice operators and beyond. For more information, visit https://www.huhtamaki.com/en-us/north-america/foodservice/.