The term “recyclable” has long been a buzzword in the food packaging industry. But now consumers and other stakeholders are demanding more than the iconic three-arrow triangle stamped on their hamburger box. They want renewability. They want safety. And all without sacrificing the functionality of less eco-friendly packaging.
Many types of food packaging have traditionally been formulated with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS — a group of man-made chemicals used to coat paper or cardboard for fast-food packaging, so it doesn’t fall apart and spill out hot, greasy foods. For decades, brands have relied on PFAS for their functionality and processability.