Thailand’s Food and Beverage Industry Embraces Eco-Friendly Packaging with APP Group Leading the Way

The environmental impact of plastic has been a major concern for decades. With growing awareness of this issue, many individuals are actively seeking safer alternatives. According to a United Nations report analyzed by Statista, several countries have banned plastic due to its lengthy recycling process. Many U.S. states have followed the lead of European nations by implementing regulations aimed at reducing plastic use in factories, large-scale industries, and manufacturing.

In Southeast Asia, Thailand has made significant strides in reducing plastic consumption. A NielsenIQ report highlights that 74% of Thai consumers exhibit responsible shopping behaviors. Many individuals are adopting sustainable practices such as bringing reusable shopping bags, reducing waste, and conserving electricity. Thailand’s food industry plays a key role in this sustainability movement. With an estimated 421,800 food vendors across 76 provinces feeding around 42 million people daily—more than half the population—the importance of addressing food and packaging waste cannot be overstated.

Eco-friendly food packaging presents a viable solution, with three main categories dominating the market based on waste processing methods:

1. Recyclable Packaging

Transitioning from disposable to recyclable packaging significantly reduces waste. Materials such as glass, wood, fabric, and metal are often used. Common examples include bubble wrap and reusable cups. However, not all recyclable packaging is equally effective. Factors like material type and decomposition ability play a crucial role in its sustainability. Popular options like paper and cardboard are widely chosen due to their ease of recycling and reusability before quality degradation. The ultimate goal of recyclable packaging is to minimize disposable waste and promote multiple uses, preventing future environmental challenges.

2. Biodegradable Packaging

Biodegradable packaging is designed to break down easily with the help of microorganisms. This rapid decomposition helps prevent landfill waste buildup and supports a healthier environment. Such packaging is made from recycled, non-toxic materials, including bamboo, bagasse, and burlap.

A key player in promoting biodegradable solutions is APP Group, a global leader in the paper and pulp industry. Committed to sustainability, APP Group has introduced innovative products tailored to the evolving demands of the food sector. One standout product line, Foopak Bio Natura, exemplifies their dedication to eco-friendly practices. These biodegradable items, such as compostable paper cups, food trays, and containers, reduce the environmental impact of food packaging while maintaining food safety and quality. Foopak Bio Natura products, developed after over a decade of research, are crafted from certified wood sources and are plastic-free, recyclable, and repulpable without requiring additional processing.

3. Compostable Packaging

Although compostable and biodegradable packaging share similarities, their primary difference lies in their final outcomes. Compostable packaging materials, such as sugarcane, cornstarch, and potato starch, not only decompose but also enrich the soil with nutrients. Made entirely from plants, these materials break down naturally without requiring specialized tools, posing no harm to the environment. While all compostable materials are biodegradable, not all biodegradable materials are compostable.

To further promote sustainable food packaging solutions in Thailand, APP Group participated in ProPak Asia 2024, held from June 12th to 15th. At this event, they showcased innovative products like Enza and Foopak, which use biodegradable paper to ensure food safety while being environmentally friendly. These efforts highlight the company’s focus on reducing food and plastic waste globally.

Through Foopak Bio Natura, APP Group addresses pressing waste management issues worldwide by offering eco-friendly, plastic-free alternatives. These products, which hold certifications such as PEFC, FDA, and ISEGA, ensure food safety while being both recyclable and compostable without requiring extra processing. Available in 65 countries across six continents, these packaging solutions are designed to be a safer, greener substitute for traditional plastic.

As one of the world’s largest paper manufacturers, APP Group demonstrates its commitment to quality and sustainability. By delivering innovative products and reliable customer service, the company continues to set a high standard for eco-friendly food packaging solutions globally.

Sources:

https://www.statista.com/chart/14120/the-countries-banning-plastic-bags/

https://nielseniq.com/global/en /insights/education/2023/growing-importance-placed-on-sustainability-when-choosing-brands-in-asia-pacific/

https://www.chiangmaicitylife.com/clg/living/community/street-food-vendors-are-thailands-economic-lifeblood/

https://app.co.id/news-release-archive/-/asset_publisher/2Zbh0Mys3kKI/content/app-group-calls-on-the-f-b-packaging-industry-to-embrace-sustainability-at-propak-asia-2024