World Centric unveils PFAS-free compostable fiber tableware for hot and cold foods
19 Apr 2021 --- World Centric is launching Leaf+, a 100 percent plant-based, fully compostable alternative to fluorinated chemicals, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), for disposable fiber tableware.
Combining new technology with an all-natural, proprietary application, Leaf+ is PFAS-free, oil-resistant, food-grade and suitable for hot and cold use, which is an industry first, according to the company.
“World Centric has been committed to removing PFAS from our products. Creating a solution that doesn’t compromise the performance and excellence of compostable fiber products has been a challenge for the industry,” explains Mark Stephany, World Centric’s senior vice president of sales.
A PFAS-free solution
Oil resistance in molded fiber plates, bowls and containers has traditionally been provided by PFAS chemicals.
Leaf+ is a 100 percent plant-based, fully compostable alternative solution to fluorinated chemicals in disposable fiber tableware.
The foodservice industry as a whole has used short-chain PFAS chemicals to provide oil resistance.
World Centric began replacing short-chain PFAS in its molded fiber products with plant-based PLA linings as a barrier in its Leaf molded fiber products in 2020.
The company is releasing Leaf+ with a select group of products and will expand the line over the coming months.
Leaf+ is a 100% plant-based, compostable alternative to fluorinated chemicals for disposable fiber tableware.Composed of plant-based ingredients, Leaf+ products provide oil and grease resistance for various foods at temperatures up to 200° Fahrenheit (93° Celsius).
All of World Centric’s molded fiber retail products, including 6”, 9”, 10” and 10” 3-compartment plates and 11.5 oz bowls, will incorporate the Leaf+ solution.
The products will become available across North America later this year. Select foodservice items will also be produced using the Leaf+ solution during the coming year.
Compostability agility
The new Leaf+ solution has passed all compostability tests under American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards and is under review for third-party certification.
“Molded fiber products with Leaf+ join the complete range of compostable solutions offered by World Centric, and build on our dedication to creating alternatives in disposable food service ware that is better for the planet,” notes Stephany.
“Given the increased awareness of consumers to the environmental issues with PFAS and an increased number of ordinances banning their use, industry is seeking ways to reduce its environmental impact and meet local, state, or regional requirements. Leaf+, along with all of our other compostable products, help make that possible.”
World Centric approach
The company gives 25 percent of its annual net profits to fund global grassroots social and environmental projects that provide basic needs and economic development opportunities for communities experiencing extreme poverty while supporting the environment.
In 2020, World Centric gave over US$1.7 million in cash and product donations, providing assistance and helping to create systems change at the root of many social and environmental issues.
Previously, World Centric released a collection of certified compostable molded fiber single-use cutlery and serving utensils in the North American market.
This collection of wood-free, plastic-free products provides the foodservice industry a more environmentally conscious option to traditional disposable cutlery and serving utensils.
Last year, a report warned nearly half of all take-out food packaging tested across major US food chains contains potentially toxic chemicals.
The Mind the Store campaign and Toxic-Free Future nonprofit combined forces to investigate the presence of PFAS – chemicals known to threaten human health – in Burger King, McDonald’s, and Wendy’s as well as top health-minded food chains Cava, Freshii, and Sweetgreen.
The investigation showed that all six food chains sampled had one or more food packaging items that “likely contain” toxic PFAS.
Edited by Kristiana Lalou
