BioCane: 5 Advantages of Using Sugarcane Packaging

The environmental effect of plastics has become a global issue. In Australia alone, out of 6.9 billion plastic bags used a year, 3.6 billion are plastic shopping bags, and of those only a meager 1 per cent of plastic bags are being reused.

With the advocacy around eco-friendly packaging, Alpha Food Packaging is committed to providing sustainable products which are recyclable or compostable. Partnering with BioPak, Alpha Food offers food packaging products such as the BioCane range of sugarcane packaging.

Made from sugarcane pulp, BioCane packaging are compostable and passes both certified home compostable to Australian Standards (AS5810) and commercially compostable to Australian Standards (AS4736).

How is sugarcane used to make packaging?

As a sustainable crop, sugarcane has a lot to offer, but unlike in the regular plastic manufacturing, sugarcane packaging materials take in a much slower process. It starts with extracting the juice from the sugarcane. What’s left is the bi-waste residue called bagasse. Instead of releasing into the atmosphere or burning, it is converted into a raw material, suitable for various packaging.

How will the use of sugarcane packaging benefit the environment?

1. Recyclable. Through paper chain, sugarcane packaging is suitable for recycling mix. It can also be used multiple times.
2. Biodegradable. Containers made from bagasse will decompose over time. This packaging is also bio-based, which means it is a renewable resource - no crop burning and no loss of non-renewable resource during its production.
3. Compostable. Once exposed to composting conditions, packaging made from sugarcane pulp biodegrades in 30 to 90 days on average. After disposing into the compost, sugarcane naturally breaks down into the soil and can serve as fertilizer.
4. Heat tolerance. Sugarcane packaging is freezer safe and can tolerate heat up to 200°F, making it safe for microwave. This means you can reuse and reheat your food in it several times.
5. Natural resource. As a plant-based product, sugarcane packaging is free from chemicals making it eco-friendly and safe for the environment.

Durable, lightweight, sturdy and versatile, BioCane products are your environmentally friendly packaging for food, alternative to the conventional takeaway plastic containers. You can get the BioCane range of products at Alpha Food Packaging through online. For eco-packaging in wholesale prices, you can also contact us here.