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  • 1.  Thoughts on Bio-based Packaging??

    Posted 10-23-2025 01:56 PM

    Hi All, 

    I would like to open a discussion about any thoughts in compostable packaging. We're currently developing a seaweed-based coating that replaces the plastic lining found in paperboard takeout containers. A challenge we've seen with the current "bio-based" products are their low performance and high prices. 

    I would love to open a discussion on what do you think about this new trend.

    Thanks! 



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    Mayela Fernandez
    www.ecoplasticity.com
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  • 2.  RE: Thoughts on Bio-based Packaging??

    Posted 10-26-2025 08:11 PM

    Hi Mayela,

    As I understand, you plan to replace the polyethylene (PE) layer currently used in paperboard takeout containers.

    There have been some scalability challenges associated with using seaweed film as a packaging material or laminate. However, it has shown good stability upon contact with food, and the overall migration limits and potential effects on food safety appear to be within acceptable standards. That said, further research is still needed in this area to validate long-term performance and regulatory compliance. There is a company called Sway which is already into seaweed based films, you may check them

    Another promising alternative could be clay-coated paper with an aqueous coating. This combination offers the premium print surface of clay-coated paper while providing the food-grade barrier properties of an aqueous coating, making it suitable for cups, bowls, and takeout containers.

    For Clay coated paper refer : https://www.paperjoypaper.com/clay-coated-paper-pe-coated-one-side-glossy-food-grade-product/



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    Nikhat Sayed
    Printing & Packaging Engineer
    Irvine CA
    (714) 548-4383
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Thoughts on Bio-based Packaging??

    Posted 10-27-2025 07:18 PM

    Hi Nikhat,

    Thanks for your response! Yes, you're right,  our goal is to replace the polyethylene (PE) lining used in paperboard takeout containers. We've seen many of the same scalability challenges you mentioned. However, we're formulating a coating that can be applied directly onto paperboard using existing coating equipment. 

    I completely agree that migration testing and regulatory validation are key next steps - we're currently working toward that. And thank you for mentioning Sway, they're doing great work in this space!

    The clay-coated + aqueous barrier combination is also interesting; it's great to see multiple solutions emerging that can help the industry move away from PE.

    Appreciate you sharing your expertise and resources!

    Best regards,
    Mayela Fernández
    Co-Founder & CEO | Ecoplasticity



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    Mayela Fernandez
    Student
    Cal Poly Packaging
    San Luis Obispo CA
    1
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Thoughts on Bio-based Packaging??

    Posted 10-28-2025 11:01 PM

    Hi Mayela,

    I recommend testing the final product for compostability (e.g., ASTM D6400).  The fact that the coating is seaweed-based does not make it necessarily compostable.



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    Jean-Francois Guillerez CPP, Fellow
    Professor, Packaging
    Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
    Cambridge ON
    Canada
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    Original Message


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