As you may have noticed, sugarcane pulp containers are gaining popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic food packaging.

Also known as bagasse, sugarcane packaging is made from the fibrous residue that remains after sugarcane juice extraction. It is sturdy, durable, and can be moulded into various shapes to create takeaway food containers.

While sugarcane packaging has been around for a few years, it’s now experiencing more time in the limelight than ever before due to recent bans both domestically and abroad on certain plastic products such as polystyrene/styrofoam. Many restaurants, cafes and retail stores have made the switch to this eco-friendly alternative. So, you’re now seeing sugarcane everywhere, even in the disposable picnic packaging section of your local supermarket.

Different types of sugarcane food packaging

What’s cooking? No matter what style of food your business sells, there are so many well-designed styles of bagasse food packaging available that there’s sure to be something that suits your needs. You’ll find trays, plates, bowls, clams, containers with lids, and even compartmentalised products to make serving and presenting food easier.

 

Functionality is key

When considering the best type of sugarcane container to package your food for takeaway, think about the functionality you require. Ask yourself whether you’ll need:

• Separate lids: Sugarcane containers and bowls are available with or without a lid. Choose from a sugarcane lid or a PET lid – perfect for showcasing foods like salads and poke bowls.
• Hinged lids: Bagasse clamshells are available in multiple sizes in single or compartmentalised styles. There’s also a sugarcane pizza slice clamshell that’s perfect for a large pizza slice but could also be used for other warm or cold foods such as rolled crepes or burritos.
• No lid: Sugarcane plates and trays are very popular with food trucks, street markets, and any other venue requiring disposable packaging for food that will be eaten on-site. Trays and plates also come in compartmentalised designs, making them a very popular option for curries and other hot foods that combine an assortment of food types into one meal.

Benefits of using sugarcane for hospitality businesses

As we see it, a switch to sugarcane is a win for both your business and the environment. Here’s a whole list of great reasons why sugarcane takeaway packaging is a wise choice:

1. Customer Preference: Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment. Many customers prefer using sustainable products, so offering sugarcane products can attract eco-conscious customers.
2. Cost-Effective: Sugarcane products are competitively priced compared to traditional plastics, so switching to them doesn’t have to be a significant financial burden for the business.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Many Australian states, including NSW, have begun phasing out single-use plastics. Switching to sugarcane products helps businesses comply with these regulations and avoid fines.
4. Positive Brand Image: Adopting sustainable practices can enhance a consumer’s perception of your business. Using sugarcane products can signify that the business is environmentally responsible and socially conscious.
5. Environmental Sustainability: Unlike paper products that are sourced from trees, sugarcane takes just 12 months to be mature for harvesting, whereas trees need to grow for a minimum of seven years before they can be turned into paper.
6. Biodegradable and Compostable: Whether in your home compost bin or collected via a commercial composting service, your sugarcane packaging will come full circle, turning back into the soil from which it once grew.

Mix & Match

Whether you’re serving up hot stuff, cold stuff, or sweet stuff, sugarcane pulp packaging is a versatile must-have for your takeaway food business. It’s oven-safe up to 200°C which means it will withstand a re-heat, and, it’s also great for cold or wet food because it won’t go soggy. From burgers to curries, or fish & chips to salads, picnics, and bakery items, you can mix and match to suit your needs.

Order online when it suits you

Did you know Sydney Packaging customers can order their packaging anytime via our app? Whether you’re a night owl or you’re up at the crack of dawn, you can order when it suits you. And, if your business is in the Sydney metro area, you can expect next-day delivery. If you aren’t already using our app, give our friendly team a call on 02 8737 8444 to discuss setting you up.