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These days, people everywhere are becoming eco-friendly, especially when it comes to take-out containers and eating out. Styrofoam clamshells became very popular in the 1950's, but are now being outlawed by cities across the country. We are finally waking up to the fact that maybe Styrofoam isn't as great as we once thought and we need to make a mindful choice to change.
Many more eco-friendly options are now becoming more available every day in the food service industry which is great for business - and great for the planet. One of the leading materials being used today in place of Styrofoam is bagasse, a byproduct of the sugarcane refining process. In layman's terms, bagasse is what is left over after the sugarcane stalks are crushed to extract the juices. Since bagasse comes from the earth it is easily converted by nature into simple, stable compounds that are absorbed back into the ecosystem.
There are many attractive qualities of bagasse, one of many being that it is both biodegradable and compostable. This means that you don't have to worry that your great-great grandchildren will be dealing with your take home food container from Saturday night's dinner!
Biodegradable means that the product will break down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass in a short amount of time. When something is "compostable", it means that it is made of organic matter that will break down in a compost system or land fill.
Bagasse biodegradable food containers are quickly being recognized as a great eco-friendly alternative to traditional Styrofoam clamshells and plastic plates. Bagasse disposable tableware, including plates and biodegradable food containers, can be lined with a corn-starch based film called PLA (polylactic acid). PLA lining is a clear, thin sheet that acts as a complete moisture and grease barrier, protecting the container and allowing it to stand up against any and all types of food.
Here are some green facts regarding disposable tableware: - While recycling of Styrofoam is possible, it is extremely expensive and many recycling plants do not accept it. Styrofoam cannot be recycled to make new Styrofoam products. It can only be used to make other products such as packing filler. - Styrofoam does not break down easily and some studies indicate that it may release chemicals when it gets wet, contaminating our precious water sources. It takes up much more space than paper in our landfills. - Less water and energy is required to produce Bagasse than Styrofoam, paper, and recycled paper. - Trees can take up to 30 years to mature, while sugarcane only takes one year making it a very renewable resource. - Less CO2 is emitted by creating Bagasse over Styrofoam and paper. - Americans use and discard over 2.5 billion Styrofoam cups each year. Thinking green and moving towards the use of more sustainable resources is imperative. Using eco-friendly tableware when you eat out or order take home food is now easier than ever.
It is now possible to buy compostable, natural, and eco-friendly versions of all types of tableware products including bowls, cutlery, disposable plates, trays, and cups as well as take-out containers for your picnics and social events.
Now is the time to go green when you eat! It's your earth - it's worth it!
