01 Jul The Benefits of Bagasse
While eco-friendly packaging is gaining popularity, finding a commercialized product that meets the benchmarks of environmental friendliness, cost effectiveness and utility can still be challenging. That’s what makes bagasse a superstar.
Bagasse is the fibrous material left over after sugarcane stalks are crushed to extract their juice. It can be used as biofuel, for pulp and building materials, and as a replacement for paper and foam products.
Many restaurants provide customers with foam takeout containers, which are far from ideal for the environment. Sugarcane bagasse containers, on the other hand, are both recyclable and compostable. Plus, they’re just as sturdy, if not sturdier, than foam, can withstand heat and are excellent for keeping food hot or cold.
Fortunately, manufacturers are beginning to catch on to the benefits of bagasse, which provides for a broader range of cost-effective options for clients. TigerGreen’s line of biodegradable, compostable sugarcane/bagasse products, for instance, includes a wide selection of hinged-lid containers, bowls and trays.
Tiger has offered bagasse products for the past few years, but we’ve seen a major increase in popularity the last 18 months — and feedback from clients has been overwhelmingly positive. They are impressed with the products’ performance and competitive pricing.
With that being said, there’s still opportunity for the material to blossom. It’s important for industry professionals to consider bagasse as a viable and valuable option for clients. As the products become more visible, demand and supply will increase. The raw material is there and readily available, it’s just a matter of getting the word out.