Q3/23 – Work, work, work

Q3 Sustainability Summary
Work, work, work

This quarter was marked by our unwavering commitment to ensuring your packages not only reach their destinations but also comply with national regulations. Navigating these regulations can be complex, but we've taken the initiative to simplify it for you. Furthermore, we've expanded our range of eco products. We're also excited to introduce our new partners, Pizzycle and Flexi Hex, who share our vision for sustainable packaging.

Our continuous learning ensures we're always ahead, adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability.

Table of contents: 

1. New products
   • Sugarcane packaging
   • Wheat barn packaging
   • Plant pulp packaging
   • Cornstarch fillers
   • Reusable mailer
2. New partners on board
   • Flexi-Hex®
   • PIZZycle®
3. Local packaging regulations

New products

In the last quarter, we worked very hard to expand our portfolio of sustainable products. Let us introduce the new products that debuted in our shop!

Sugarcane packaging

Derived from the remnants of sugarcane post-juice extraction, this packaging decomposes naturally without any adverse environmental impact. It's robust, suitable for both hot and cold food, and comes with an added greaseproof layer. Its natural brown hue is aesthetically pleasing, and it complies with all food safety standards.

Wheat bran packaging 

Wheat bran packaging is an eco-friendly option as it utilises wheat bran, a byproduct of wheat processing that is typically discarded. By repurposing this waste material, wheat bran packaging reduces overall waste and closes the loop. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, wheat bran packaging is biodegradable and compostable, breaking down naturally without leaving harmful residues and thus minimising its impact on landfill.

But of course you can just eat it as well. It’s no joke. Wheat bran plates are perfectly good for eating, they’re low in calories and high in fibre, which provide insulation and durability, making it suitable for a wide range of products. That’s why the bran plates are perfect for serving and storing hot and cold meals. And, against all odds, they’re oven and microwave-safe!

Compostable food containers 

Our compostable food containers are crafted from plant pulp, which means that they are natural and biodegradable. The fascinating aspect of their production lies in their minimal environmental impact. The process involves extracting fibres from the plant sources, which are then combined with water, moulded into container shapes, and dried.

What's remarkable is that this process requires significantly less energy compared to traditional plastic production, and it doesn't involve the use of harmful chemicals.

These containers are industrially compostable, which means that they can be broken down into compost, a nutrient-rich soil conditioner, under specific conditions found in industrial composting facilities. This innovative approach not only reduces the burden on landfills but also demonstrates the potential for sustainable materials in the packaging industry, offering a greener alternative to traditional plastic containers.

Cornstarch fillers (bio foam filler)

Cornstarch packaging fillers are made from renewable and biodegradable cornstarch, which means they can break down naturally in the environment. Unlike traditional Styrofoam packing peanuts, cornstarch fillers are non-toxic and safe to handle, making them an environmentally conscious option. They are also water-soluble, so they won't linger in waterways or harm wildlife if they end up outdoors. And of course they provide effective cushioning and protection for fragile items during shipping. They are an excellent example of how sustainable materials can be used to enhance packaging while minimising environmental impact.

Reusable mailer created in cooperation with Plenti

In our portfolio, you can also find a reusable mailer from recycled plastic that we created with Plenti. It can be reused more than 100 times! It’s a secure alternative for fashion and apparel packaging and it is now available with a custom print.

New partners on board

We are thrilled to introduce our two new partners and their innovative products that are set to transform the world of packaging and dining - Flexi-Hex® and PIZZycle®. You can already find their products in our portfolio, now it’s high time to meet the companies behind the products. 

Flexi-Hex®

Flexi-Hex®, is an innovator in the world of sustainable packaging solutions. Their flagship product, Flexi-Hex®, is a testament to their commitment to redefining packaging with a focus on environmental responsibility. What sets them apart is their honeycomb design, featuring a hexagonal cell structure that adapts seamlessly to accommodate the shape of any product. Beyond its flexibility, Flexi-Hex® acts as a protective barrier, creating an air cushion that shields fragile items like glass bottles and delicate food containers from harm during transit.

Working with Flexi-Hex® brings a new level of conscious packaging to our offerings. Crafted from robust recycled paper, it’s a completely plastic-free composition that’s suitable for recycling, which fits perfectly to our eco properties. With seven available sizes to choose from, Flexi-Hex® provides versatility and eco-friendliness in a single, innovative package.

PIZZycle®

On the dining front, we are equally excited to present the PIZZycle® and their reusable pizza box. This clever box champions sustainability with its 100% recyclable, dishwasher-safe design.
Made in Europe with a strong focus on sustainability, these pizza boxes are not your ordinary packaging. What truly sets them apart is their reusability factor. Crafted from food-safe, recyclable plastic, they're not only durable but also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

Plus, innovative ventilation holes ensure that your pizza stays crispy without losing any of its delicious aroma or heat. And if that's not enough to catch your eye, you can personalize your box  with a stunning array of colors, allowing you to choose the one that aligns best with your branding and style. 

Both partnerships reflect our dedication to providing innovative, eco-friendly solutions that cater to our customers' evolving needs while minimising our environmental impact. As you know, at Packhelp, we are committed to prioritising eco-conscious choices, and Flexi-Hex® and PIZZycle® help us provide you with the best solutions.

Local packaging regulations

Sustainability in packaging is not merely a global trend; it's the law! In today's world, environmental consciousness and adherence to regulations have become indispensable. And we know that it’s hard to keep track, when they vary from region to region. 

In Poland, there is a strong emphasis on promoting eco-friendly packaging materials and transparent labelling practices, ensuring consumers have clear and accurate information. Germany enforces producer responsibility rigorously, with a focus on transparency in labelling, while the United Kingdom prioritises reducing plastic waste and standardising labelling. France champions the circular economy, aiming to keep materials in use longer, and Italy is streamlining packaging through systematic labelling and single-material packaging. 

Even though it all sounds similar, you have to pay close attention to the differences. To help you stay compliant with local regulations, we've compiled environmental compliance cheat sheets tailored to specific regions. These guidelines encompass a range of topics, from Extended Producer Responsibility to proper labelling, material composition, and more. We hope they will be of help to you.