Eco Friendly Packaging Materials
Eco Friendly Packaging Materials for Cafes and Restaurants
Running a bustling café or restaurant is no small feat, especially when customers start asking about your packaging. You want to do the right thing for the environment, but with just 15 minutes to make a decision before the next delivery truck rolls in, it can feel overwhelming. Let’s cut through the jargon and get straight to the point. Here are three eco friendly packaging materials that are practical for any kitchen, fit through the dishwasher, and won’t break the bank.
The shortlist you can trust
1. [Compostable Produce – Gusseted Bag (Carton of 2000)](/product/frp-bag)
Measuring 250 mm × 380 mm and made from 25 µm thick material, these bags are certified compostable. They’re perfect for holding loose fruit, veggies, herbs, or bakery items. Plus, they stack flat when empty, making them easy to store under the counter. A carton of 2000 will keep a medium café stocked for about two months.
2. [Produce – Tray 2D 212×150×24 mm (Carton of 500)](/product/frp-tray)
This two-compartment tray is ideal for salads, deli boxes, or small mains. With a depth of 24 mm, it keeps dressings where they belong. A carton of 500 is just right—enough to test out without tying up too much cash.
3. [Produce – Tray 17S 212×110×15 mm (Carton of 500)](/product/frp-tray-2)
This single-compartment tray is shallower, making it great for sushi, wraps, or small desserts. At 15 mm deep, it conserves material without feeling flimsy. You can order both trays in the same carton size, allowing you to switch things up as needed.
What to look for when you’re comparing quotes
- Certification: Check for AS4736 or AS5810 compostable certification on the product page. If it’s not there, it’s just marketing fluff.
- Thickness: Aim for 20–25 µm for bags and 15–24 mm wall thickness for trays. Anything thinner and you’ll hear complaints from the dish-packing station.
- Stack height: If a carton is taller than 30 cm, it won’t fit on a standard shelf. All three products listed here stack neatly under 28 cm.
- Delivery: Enjoy free delivery across Australia for orders over $350. If your order is sitting at $349, just add a box of serviettes to tip you over the line.
Common mistakes that waste money
1. Buying “biodegradable” instead of “compostable”. Remember, biodegradable can still mean plastic; compostable must break down in home or industrial compost within 12 weeks.
2. Ordering the wrong carton size. A carton of 10,000 bags might seem cheap per unit, but if you only use 500 a week, it’ll just sit in the storeroom for six months.
3. Ignoring storage space. Compostable trays can absorb moisture if left in a damp corner. Keep them on a pallet or in a sealed bin to avoid issues.
4. Forgetting the dishwasher test. Run a tray through a hot cycle; if it warps or the print runs, it’s time to send it back.
Where to start this week
Choose one product and give it a two-week trial. If customers notice and start asking for more, double your order next time. If the kitchen raises concerns about stiffness or leaks, consider moving to the next size up. The carton of 500 trays or 2000 bags is small enough to adjust quickly without incurring a restocking fee.
FAQ
Where can I buy eco friendly packaging materials in bulk?
You’re already on the right page! Click on any of the three product links above, set your desired quantity, and checkout. Remember, delivery is free over $350 across Australia.
Is compostable packaging more expensive than plastic?
Not if you stick to the carton sizes mentioned above. The per-unit price decreases when you buy in bulk, plus you’ll avoid the hidden costs of customer complaints or council fines for non-compliant packaging.
Next step
Now that you have the shortlist, the specs, and the common pitfalls to avoid, it’s time to decide which product you’ll trial first. Click through to get started:
Ready to order in bulk?
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