M2 Formulex says it will offer a complete biodegradable and compostable food packaging, claiming this week it had invested three years in researching the market potential for earth-friendly packaging, sourcing and qualifying overseas manufacturers of biodegradable packaging products, and securing distribution in North America.
Over the past year packaging suppliers have been introducing various forms of biodegradable plastics made from a variety of plants, in the main corn, based on projections that consumers and recycling regulations will drive demand for environmentally-friendly packaging . Some companies are predicting that the market will grow by about 20 per cent a year.
In addition, a combination of pricing and retail uptake has led more and more processors to look at biodegradable products as an alternative to polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The sharp rise in the prices for petroleum and natural gas, a major component of PET and other packaging plastics.
Steve Johnston, M2's manager of business development, said the company forecasts that North America will follow Europe's lead in biodegradable packaging.
"Biodegradable packaging made from annually-renewable resources has been available in Asia and Europe for a number of years and is only now beginning to garner interest from North America," he stated. "Our challenge in bringing a complete packaging solution to market was a significant one. We were faced with the task of sourcing and qualifying suppliers who could deliver quality biodegradable packaging products that offered functionality that is comparable or superior to traditional packaging, on a consistent basis, at a competitive cost, and with the necessary biodegradability and compostability certifications. We feel confident that we have finally achieved this."
M2's biodegradable products include a variety of fiber-based trays, containers and clamshells for foodservice, retail-packaged meat and produce, frozen entrees and prepared foods. The company also offers biodegradable cling film, which is rated as safe for food contact. All products, made from corn-based fibre, are moisture resistant, oil resistant, heat resistant and freezer-safe.
"It's clear the North American market is now ready for earth-friendly packaging, and the ever-increasing cost of traditional, petroleum-based packaging is allowing us to offer this functional, sustainable and price-stable alternative at a competitive cost for the very first time," Johnston stated.