#plastic food packaging

[tunnaa-unnaa]

Pleasures of recycling in Finland

Just took a garbage bag full of empty bottles to the store next door. Got enough money back to get two big bottles of pepsi, two boxes of cat food and an XL ketchup bottle with still 65 cents leftover that I gave to the kid next in line at checkout.

Idk just feels nice man. Going to the store without a wallet, just dumping plastic waste and getting good products in return. We should really do this with other product waste too.

[chinafilmgroup]

BOPP Thermal Lamination Film - Glossy/Matte

Lamination film factory tour-China film group

[happigreens]

Link to the court document here

From the Guardian article:

Houston-based Inhance manufactures an estimated 200m containers annually with a process that creates, among other chemicals, PFOA, a toxic PFAS compound. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in December prohibited Inhance from using the manufacturing process.

But the conservative fifth circuit court of appeals court overturned the ban. The judges did not deny the containers’ health risks, but said the EPA could not regulate the buckets under the statute it used. The rule requires companies to alert the EPA if a new industrial process creates hazardous chemicals. Inhance has produced the containers for decades and argued that its process is not new, so it is not subject to the regulations. The EPA argued that it only became aware that Inhance’s process created PFOA in 2020, so it could be regulated as a new use, but the court disagreed.

Inhance said in a statement its “technologies … keep thousands of tons of harmful chemicals and fuels out of the environment, preserve product quality, and ensure compliance with many global regulations”. However, the company in 2021 admitted the creation of PFAS is “an unavoidable aspect” of its process [...]

[theres-whump-in-that-nebula]

I kind of want to try making mead or ambrosia 👀

Obviously not right now because I have Shit To Do; but maybe during the summer after I’ve moved

[aerofibreseo]

plastic bottle recycling machine in india

Diamond PET Flakes

[hazypawz]

*cuts up cucumber to have with my chicky nugs* i’m so healthy i’m never having a health problem ever again

[technologyvoid]

Ok brain how about no

[the-happy-man]

“It’s a grave concern for me that these containers are used for food, full stop,” said Kyla Bennett, a former EPA scientist who is now with Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, which brought the suit with the Center for Environmental Health.

She added that it was impossible to tell which containers are contaminated by looking at them but sturdier containers were more likely to have PFAS than those that crumple easily…

The new lawsuit was filed under a provision in US law that allows citizens to bring suits against polluters allegedly violating rules and not being held accountable by regulatory agencies.

The EPA filed suit against Inhance on 21 December. The suit was heavily redacted to conceal any mention of the company’s PFAS production because the agency cannot reveal confidential business practices. The redactions make it unclear if the EPA is asking the court to order Inhance to immediately halt production. The EPA did not comment.

Court filings show the EPA and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) knew of the contamination over the last two years but have failed to stop production.

[petula-xx]

Bulk Foods Shock

Recent research at bulk foods stores has been disappointing. I’ve discovered that their prices per 100gm or 100ml are actually more expensive than the prepackaged versions of the same foods and products available from other stores.

I was hoping, and assumed, that bulk food stores would be cheaper. But it seems that package free and BYO container shopping is actually quite expensive. I’m confused about why this would be so.

Perhaps someone with some experience or knowledge in this retail space might be able to shed some light here.

[aeide-thea]

i did not engage with black friday but the absolutely relentless barrage of emails from various retailers about their sales! sales! sales! has had me thinking a bunch abt Shopping nonetheless

and like. there are a lot of things to be said on that front but specifically at the moment i'm frustrated with the way in which my own human failings (ADHD mainly) and also reqs/prefs make it difficult to be as good about things i care abt as i'd like—which frankly is a statement that's true far beyond the scope of this post, lol, but specifically i'm thinking abt like [cut for length]:

i've been contemplating microplastics with dread/frustration/shame and wanting to move towards natural fibers, which also just feel and perform better—but the reality afaict from my reading of reviews is that with actual t-shirt-thin 100% merino,¹ even if it says it's machine-washable, people find that it develops holes within, like, one season of wear, if not significantly sooner? which is obviously not even a little bit sustainable financially, never mind the other costs (shipping emissions, etc) of reordering clothing that often. so basically you either have to accept some percentage of reinforcing nylon in the garment, which means you're still creating microplastics when you go to wash it, or you have to handwash all your shirts, which—i've met myself. that just isn't realistically possible for me. i'm like multiple weeks overdue for doing a Big Wash but i keep ADHD-ing my way past the point in the day that i'd want to have started the process by, so it keeps getting put off, and that's with in-house washer/dryer access—imagine upping the level of difficulty by adding in handwashing! could Not be me.

so ultimately where i end up is that like, in buying corespun merino i'm improving my textural/wicking/temp reg/etc experience, so i do benefit, but the environment isn't benefiting nearly as much as i'd like, although i suppose washing a garment that's like 13% plastic is probably still not-insignificantly better than washing one that's 100% plastic, especially if the anti-stink/anti-wrinkle properties of merino pan out enough that i can actually wash the garment less often? but like. not nearly as gratifying as achieving 100% natural fiber, 0% microplastics. :/

(it's possible merino-tencel blends are hardier? so that might be worth looking into. but also i have very particular size/style/gender prefs/needs that really narrow the field of possibilities, is the thing—wanting to wear a smaller-than-standard men's size rather than a more common women's size, basically—and idk how many merino-tencel blends (if any) fit within the narrow band that leaves for me. [it's maybe possible a men's S could be dryer-shrunk enough to function as an XS, but that sounds (a) more possible with 100% merino than with a blend and (b) like an experiment too expensive to risk having fail.])

⸻ ¹ i do have one (1) fancy merino hoodie i bought years ago as an Investment Piece that's like, 100% merino machine-knit that's fleecy inside—sort of like american apparel california fleece except wool?—and is ime entirely machine-wash friendly: practical attractive impeccable garment‚ after years of amortization price almost reasonable‚ no notes. but i think it's the thickness of the fabric that makes that possible—t-shirts you want to be much thinner‚ and thinness → tearing.

[allguidancehere]

disposable containers with lids for food safety

Reusable containers can be useful whether your goal is to reduce the amount of food that is wasted or you just want somewhere to store food that has already been cooked. But when it comes to both personal and environmental health, are there any food containers that are more secure than others? The information that you require is detailed below.

A master of the code You'll notice a little triangle with a number (the resin identification code) ranging from 1 to 7 on the bottom of plastic food storage containers. These numbers are on the bottom of the containers. This number provides information regarding the composition of the plastic. In general, the selections 1, 2, 4, and 5 are the most reliable when it comes to food safety. Avoiding plastic containers with the codes 3, 6, and 7 is something that is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Plastic number 3 is made of vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plastic number 6 is made of polystyrene, and plastic number 7 is made of a variety of polymers, including bisphenol A. (BPA).

The usage of the chemical known as bisphenol A (BPA) has been made illegal in the production of baby bottles, sippy cups, and the packaging of infant formulae. The use of this material in other food and beverage containers, on the other hand, is still subject to monitoring by the Food and Drug Administration of the United States and is now regarded as safe. The widespread availability of BPA-free plastic food and beverage containers in today's market enables customers to reduce their overall exposure to the chemical.

Keep your composure. Even though polycarbonate plastic is tough and long-lasting, it is possible for it to deteriorate over time due to exposure to high temperatures or excessive use. Never reheat food in a microwave while it is still in a plastic food container, including margarine tubs and takeout containers from restaurants. After their first usage, the plastic containers that come with prepackaged microwaveable meals shouldn't be reused because they were designed to be used only once before being discarded safely. It is also not recommended to place plastic containers in the washing machine or dishwasher.

Recycle whenever it's feasible. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that in 2017, the United States recycled little more than 8% of the plastic containers and packaging that was produced. This can lead to emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), which can have a negative impact on the environment's health.

The Crux of the Matter

Choose your plastic food containers carefully and restrict their use to the storage of cold foods only. They are also an excellent choice for transporting food items. Instead, you might choose to put cold or hot items in containers made of glass or stainless steel. Both of these options are great for storing food at home because they can be reused after being cleaned. Is it possible that non-toxic food storage containers could improve the health of your food? Consider the following:

When you place food in plastic containers designed for food storage, you always end up with more food than you initially put in…

It is inevitable that you will ingest some of the chemicals and microplastics that are absorbed by the food you eat.

Therefore, non-plastic alternatives to Tupperware make perfect sense.

It would be a shame to serve nutritious food on safe dinner plates, only to pollute the leftovers with plastic after they have been stored in the refrigerator. It would appear that using non-toxic food storage containers is an important component of any healthy lifestyle.

Because of this, we looked at a large number of different options before settling on the 11 most secure food storage containers.

But before we get into that, there's something important you should know about the containers made of so-called safe plastic… (i.e., food storage containers that do not contain BPA)

They are not as secure as you believe they are.

Consequently, amongst other things, you'll learn how to conduct a risk assessment of the plastic Tupperware you already own. In this manner, you will be able to acquire the most superior non-plastic food storage containers available today…

And from this point forward, you'll be aware of everything that you should steer clear of. There is a good chance that you, along with everyone else, own a huge quantity of plastic food storage containers. They are not only cheap but also quite convenient, and most of the time we get them for free when we order takeout.

However, herein lies the rub. These containers, if they get stressed, have the potential to leach dangerous elements into the food inside of them.

Where is the stress?

The heat from eating hot food or re-heating your leftovers in the microwave. There are also scratches and sunshine to consider.

And tense plastic containers don't go to the pool to unwind and relax when they're agitated…

Chemicals with estrogenic activity, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, are instead released into the environment. These chemicals help to improve the utility of plastic in a variety of applications, including containers, water bottles, and more.

The following are some of the health dangers posed by BPA and phthalates found in plastic food storage containers:

According to a number of studies, these substances are linked to obesity and have negative effects on a number of organs, including the heart and the brain.

BPA is especially concerning when it comes to the health of children. There is a correlation between exposure in early childhood and the symptoms of ADHD, which include inattention, hyperactivity, and depression.

Yikes.

Phthalates also raise a number of problems, which is to be expected. According to the CDC's findings, they have little effect on the reproductive system of animals.

Consequently, I strongly advise getting rid of any and all plastic containers in order to eliminate any risk of contamination to your food.

But hang on. Getting rid of plastic isn't always simple or even possible… Especially if you are working with a limited amount of money.

Therefore, it's possible that you're thinking, "C'mon! What kind of food storage containers made of plastic even exist?! I can't yet afford to replace all of my plastic!" How to determine which plastic containers are of the highest quality for use with food (Avoiding BPA)

Flipping over your plastic container and taking a quick look at the recycling number is the quickest and easiest approach to conduct a risk assessment.

(That is, the numerals 1 through 7 enclosed within a triangle formed by three arrows; see the illustration above.)

Containers made of plastic with the numbers 1, 2, 4, and 5 are considered to be the most secure for food storage. These storage containers do not contain BPA and are therefore safer to use around food.

The likelihood of finding BPA in a product increases with its number: 3, 6, and notably 7.

Polycarbonate plastics can be identified by their number 7 label or the "PC" marking on their packaging. They have BPA in them to give the stiff plastic more "give," which helps prevent cracking and breaking.

If a plastic is stiff and clear, there is a good chance that it is made of polycarbonate and that it contains BPA. Take, for instance, a durable, see-through container that can be reused to store food.

Plastic containers that are hazy, soft, and flexible are less likely to contain the chemical bisphenol A (BPA).

The important thing is to examine the labeling at all times.

However, there is one point that should be kept in mind:

There is a danger associated with the use of any plastic, even BPA-free Tupperware. The label "BPA-free" is not accurate in any way, shape, or form because this plastic instead consists of BPS.

According to Scientific American, investigations have shown that the hazards associated with BPS are essentially identical to those associated with BPA.

The Takeaway: If you are going to use a plastic container of any kind, then you should adhere to these principles to lower your risk:

Plastic containers should never be used to heat food in the microwave or any other method.

Do not save or reuse the plastic food packaging from commercial products… Takeout containers designed for a single usage, for instance. These are not designed to be reused, and the plastic they contain will contaminate your food.

Do not serve hot meals in plastic containers intended for cold foods. Prepare the heat in a dish all by itself.

Do not put food containers made of plastic into the dishwasher to clean them. The plastic deteriorates as a result of the heat.

If you have Tupperware that is more than a few years old, you should get rid of it as soon as possible. Plastic that is old and worn out degrades into food much more easily than newer plastic.

When you buy sauces or other items that come in glass mason jars, be sure to keep the jars for later use. These are an excellent and risk-free alternative to using Tupperware.

[chinafilmgroup]

Lamination film factory tour-China film group

[lupusbaby]

Some people don’t want to hear this but sometimes accessibility is not sustainable or eco-friendly. Disabled people sometimes need straws, or pre-made meals in plastic containers, or single-use items. Just because you can work with your foods in their least processed and packaged form doesn’t mean everyone else can.

[poonamcmi]

ASEAN Flexible Packaging: Flexible Packaging Gaining Popularity in ASEAN Region

Emergence of ASEAN Flexible Packaging Flexible packaging has seen tremendous growth in the ASEAN region over the past decade. As consumer lifestyles and shopping habits have evolved, flexible packaging formats have emerged as a popular alternative to rigid containers for various food and consumer goods products. Flexible packaging offers advantages like lightweight construction, ease of opening, re-sealability, and ability to fit irregular shapes that appeal both to manufacturers and customers. Films made from materials like plastic, paper, aluminum foil and their combinations are commonly used in the manufacture of flexible packages. Pouches, bags, wraps and rolls are some of the popular flexible packaging formats utilized by brands.

Rise of the Convenience Culture The on-the-go lifestyles led by urban consumers in the ASEAN Flexible Packaging have driven the need for portable and convenient packaging options. Flexible packages that can be easily handled and stored are ideal for packed meals, snacks and beverages consumed outside the home. Their compact sizes allow consumers to tuck the packages into bags or carry them conveniently. Products packaged in flexible films can also be resealed after initial opening and enjoyed later, reducing wastage. This appeals to the budgets and environmentally conscious mindsets of millennial consumers. The growth of the quick service restaurants industry and on-demand delivery services further popularizes flexible packages designed for takeaway consumption.

Advantages over ASEAN Flexible Packaging While rigid containers like bottles, cans and cartons continue to be used for certain products, flexible packaging scores over them on key parameters. Their lightweight plastic, paper or laminate films require 30-50% less material to produce compared to glass or metal containers. This makes flexible packages more energy efficient and cheaper to transport. The lack of rigid infrastructure also enables flexible formats to be produced in various shapes, sizes and customized designs as per the product. Their efficient space-filling abilities allow more units per truck or shipping container compared to rigid packs. All these factors make flexible packaging an attractive option from a cost and sustainability perspective for brands.

Expanding Application Areas Over the past decade, flexible packaging has expanded beyond traditional FMCG categories like food and beverages to see wider adoption in other industries as well. In the pharmaceutical sector, medicines, capsules and ointments are increasingly packed in lightweight and tamper-evident foil and laminate pouches. The cosmetics industry has also moved from jars and tubes to stand-up pouches and zipper bags for products like compacts, creams and serums. Other sectors witnessing growth in flexible packaging usage include automotive, pet care products and agriculture inputs. Innovative formats like re-closable stand-up pouches and spit pouches have enabled flexible packs to replace rigid cans in categories like pet food as well.

Rise of Digital and Sustainable Packaging Digital print technology and sustainable materials are two emerging trends influencing the flexible packaging sector in ASEAN. Digital printing enables versioning of pack designs, variable data and personalization at mass production scales - an advantage driving brands to promote their products through vivid flexible packaging graphics. At the same time, consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging has motivated manufacturers to produce flexible films from renewable, recyclable and compostable paper and plastic materials. Features like minimal overwrap and ease of disposal make flexible packages incorporating sustainable attributes a viable green solution. As environmental regulations in the region get stricter, sustainable flexible packaging formats will play a bigger role.

Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing The steady growth projected for ASEAN's flexible packaging market is attracting global flexible packaging converters to set up advanced manufacturing units in the region. Machinery and technology for producing various flexible packaging formats like stand-up pouches, flow wraps, vacuum skins are being locally sourced. Home-grown flexible packaging converters are also upgrading with state-of-the-art converting lines to offer innovative formats, custom designs, and value-added services under one roof. Importantly, the incorporation of Industry 4.0 concepts like automation, digitization and internet of things promises to enhance flexible packaging production efficiencies and quality control going forward. All these developments are set to boost ASEAN's flexible packaging manufacturing competitiveness on the global scale.

Rising Demand across Consumer Segments All major socio-economic segments within the ASEAN region present growing opportunities for flexible packaging. The burgeoning middle and affluent urban populations seek flexible packs for their perceived premium appeal and convenience. At the same time, flexible pouches and laminates are also cost-effective for low unit price segments targeting rural communities or food-insecure demographics. Their versatility to package small quantities at affordable price points helps companies reach price-sensitive consumers across all income levels. With ASEAN's combined population projected to exceed 700 million by 2030, the long-term demand drivers remain favorable for flexible packaging to gain further penetration within the region's diverse consumer base.

The flexible packaging sector has emerged as a key beneficiary of ASEAN's economic growth and transformation towards modern retail channels and lifestyles. Homegrown manufacturers and multinational converters have strengthened flexible packaging capabilities in the region over the past decade through investments, partnerships and technology adoption. Backed by a vibrant consumer market and opportunities across industries, the ASEAN flexible packaging industry offers tremendous potential for further expansion, innovation and global competitiveness in the times to come. Get More Insights On, ASEAN Flexible Packaging For More Insights Discover the Report In language that Resonates with you

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About Author: Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)

[greendotbiopak]

Biodegradable Products Manufacturers - Greendot Biopak

Greendot Biopak is a leading manufacturer and exporter of high-quality 100% biodegradable products in Gujarat, India. We specialize in producing environmentally friendly, compostable products that help reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability. Our product range includes disposable bags, shrink film, biodegradable resins, and compostable cutlery. These products are designed to decompose naturally, leaving no harmful residues behind. By choosing Greendot Biopak, you contribute to a cleaner environment and support eco-friendly practices. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that you receive the best biodegradable products that meet your needs and help protect our planet. Visit our site - https://www.greendotbiopak.com/

[plastic689]

Why Polypropylene Bags are Ideal for Food Storage

Polypropylene bags are ideal for food storage due to their superior strength, durability, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and bacteria. Unlike other plastic bags for food packaging, they provide excellent protection and maintain the freshness of food items for longer periods. Their lightweight nature and high clarity make them perfect for displaying products while ensuring safety and hygiene. Additionally, polypropylene bags are recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly choice for food packaging solutions.