Huhtamaki launches BioWare, a compostable range of single-use tableware for foodservice

A worldwide manufacturer of consumer packaging, Huhtamaki introduces BioWare, a complete range of single-use cold drink cups, plates, containers and cutlery, all based on renewable raw materials and compostable after use. Huhtamaki is the first to manufacture and commercialize such a complete range of compostable foodservice packaging. Designed to fulfil the needs of various foodservice operators, these products work in uses ranging from outdoor festivals and mass events to catering and daily food and beverage service. After use, all products in the BioWare line can be returned to the earth through composting.

BioWare disposables are available across Europe to beverage companies, breweries and foodservice operators such as catering and quick service restaurants. “No compromises are made on the quality of the products; the beer and water cups are of high clarity and the plates sturdy and durable. All products can be customized to suit various events and operators”, Tiilikainen assures. The cold drink cups are made from a corn based resin called NatureWorks® PLA. The material is fully natural, made from annually renewable resources and certified for compostability. The technology to produce NatureWorks PLA breaks down the plant starches into natural sugars. The carbon and other elements are used to make polylactide (PLA) in a simple fermentation and separation process. Products made of this material are perfectly clear and sturdy, well suited for serving all cold drinks including water, beer, soft drinks and shakes. When disposed of in industrial composting conditions, products made with NatureWorks PLA compost into water, carbon dioxide and organic material.

The plates and bowls of the BioWare range are Huhtamaki’s Chinet® products, made from 100% molded fiber. After profound laboratory testing, Chinet® plates are certified for compostability according to EN 13432, the respective European standard. Chinet® plates are made from Huhtamaki’s own post industrial paper cup cuttings in the European manufacturing unit in Norway with a proprietary smooth-molding process and they are recognized for their rigidity, functionality and premium finish. Today, the origin of the fiber material is well traceable and the fiber comes from forests that are under sustainable forestry programs. Use of the compostable products enables the event caterers or for example quick service restaurants to eventually combine the waste streams of food and packaging. Already today, this can work well on mass events. For example Alken Maes, the second largest Belgian brewery, successfully used the BioWare beer cups in the summer festivals in 2004 after which the cups were composted.