Choosing the right packaging can make all the difference for takeaway and food businesses, especially when it comes to small food packaging, like portion cups. But as single-use plastic bans continue to roll out across Australia and the rest of the world, there’s growing demand for more sustainable packaging solutions. Detpak’s new PLA lined sauce container and lid range, featuring a PLA lining, are ideal for condiments, sauces and dips.
If you’re looking for sustainable packaging solutions, here’s what you need to know about how to choose the right portion cups, and how to use Detpak’s new range.
Key factors to consider when choosing portion cups
Choosing the right portion cups for your business requires careful consideration of several important factors. From materials, size, and functionality, here are a few points to keep in mind when selecting portion cups.
Materials
As businesses move away from single-use packaging to more sustainable options, the material composition of products, like portion cups, becomes increasingly important.
Compared to traditional plastics like PP (Polypropylene) and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a plant-based, compostable material that’s used to line paper or cardboard. PLA lining offers effective barrier properties, making it an ideal choice for condiments and sauces. As a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, PLA-lined products which are certified compostable to Australian Standards are accepted throughout Australia under SUPPs bans.
Size and capacity
Before ordering portion cups, be sure to compare the sizing options against your menu needs and customer preferences. Whether you offer dips, dressings, sauces or even small snacks, you’ll need to ensure your portion cups are just the right size. If they’re too small, you’ll likely run out quickly, but if they’re too large and bulky, they can become inconvenient and take up unnecessary space. A 2oz container with matching lid is the ideal size for a side of sauce or dressing.
Functionality and uses
When packaging up condiments, sauces and dips for takeaway, it’s important to choose a portion cup that’s fit for food-on-the-move. Consumers are after leak-proof packaging that won’t spill, so finding a portion cup with a tight-fitting lid is paramount for customer satisfaction. Greaseproof materials, like PLA lined packaging, will add to the overall consumer experience.
Sustainability benefits of PLA portion cups
Driven by single-use plastic bans and changing consumer demands, food and takeaway businesses are looking for sustainable packaging solutions. As an alternative to traditional plastic, PLA lined packaging offers a number of benefits.
PLA is a natural starch-based bio-plastic derived from plants such as corn, potatoes, and sugarcane. This innovative material is commercially compostable, offering a sustainable packaging solution that’s better for the environment, reducing plastic ending up in landfill.
Incorporating sustainable practices, like using compostable packaging, can enhance brand reputation and appeal to the environmentally conscious consumer.
Branding opportunities for PLA portion cups
Like traditional packaging, PLA portion cups also provide opportunities for customisation and branding. Customised packaging can boost your brand’s visibility, particularly for takeaway and food delivery, enhancing the customer experience.
At Detpak, not only are our PLA portion cups a sustainable choice, 90% of our products are printed with food-safe inks that are sustainably sourced and environmentally responsible. The Detpak design team will guide you through the requirements for custom printed packaging, from selecting the right products, finalising artwork and determining quantities needed, through to delivery.
Detpak’s range of PLA sauce containers and lids offer a high-quality, sustainable packaging solution. For more sustainable packaging solutions, explore Detpak’s Food Delivery Range.
