QSR Packaging Moves Toward Sustainable Options

How sustainable is the global sustainable packaging market? When about two-thirds of consumers say they consider it important that the products they buy come in sustainable packaging, industry leaders’ ears perked up, and action had to be taken. With more consumers becoming environmentally aware and demanding sustainability, companies are pivoting toward sustainable packaging. And because reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging is more in demand, the market is projected to reach $470 billion by 2027, up from an estimated $305 billion in 2020. This year alone, quick-service restaurants and delivery apps have been the driving force to introduce more sustainable packaging. 

Uber + Visa

New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris and Madrid are Uber and Visa’s first locations for supporting small- and medium-sized businesses in their transition to sustainable packaging. The new duo has created a program that will provide funding for sustainable packaging solutions. The money will go to qualifying Uber Eats restaurants in the cities mentioned. However, Uber’s efforts are part of a larger initiative to support businesses who use Uber Eats to grow. Within the next coming months, Uber will release new information on how to qualify and apply, along with more details on the solution-focused partnership. 

McDonald’s

McDonald’s is looking to the future and actively trying to leave straws in the past. As part of a multi-year effort, the global chain has been testing strawless lids in some U.S. cities to make its packaging more environmentally friendly. “These lids help optimize our packaging and eliminate the use of small plastics, just one example of the many solutions we’re reviewing as part of our ongoing global commitment to reduce waste,” a McDonald’s spokesperson said in a statement. To prevent any liquid from spilling, the plastic lids have a pullback tab, so consumers can slot the tab into a small opening. Imagine the structure of a “sippy cup” lid at Starbucks to gain a better idea of a McDonald’s plastic lid. 

Shake Shack

Shake Shack has begun exploring the world of sustainable packaging by swapping existing packaging elements with options made of more efficient materials. Previously, the restaurant’s to-go bags were made of virgin paper, but now the burger brand has chosen a new supplier that offers bags produced with 100 percent recycled fiber and 95 percent post-consumer content. Once they got the sustainability ball rolling, Shake Shack introduced a pilot of compostable, plastic-free, carbon-negative straws and cutlery in select markets, and the numbers are growing.

Hannah’s Bretzel

Over 30 years ago, the founder of Hannah’s Bretzel, Florian Pfahler, came to the U.S. from his home in Germany and settled in New York City. Upon his arrival, one of the first things he noticed was how many unnecessary paper and plastic products were tossed in with his food order. He came across sandwiches wrapped in foil placed in a brown bag, along with dozens of napkins and condiments. These unsolicited occurrences inspired the idea for the Chicago-based Hannah’s Bretzel. The CEO believes it’s possible to run a profitable, sustainable company, but he notes that sourcing clean energy and being mindful of paper and plastic usage are cost-saving measures. To cut down on paper waste, Hannah’s staff are trained to ask guests if they need a bag for to-go food versus giving one without asking. Each sandwich is given one napkin unless more are requested, and all unrecyclable waste Hannah’s Bretzel produces is composted. 

As QSRs are choosing more sustainable foodservice packaging, we know that making the right choices for a better future should be simple. At Huhtamaki, we believe that packaging is essential to protect food, people and the planet. Our ambition is to be the first choice in sustainable packaging solutions. We offer sustainable options that are recyclable, compostable, produced with recycled content or made from renewable resources. As a true partner in innovation, we can help you make the most sustainable food packaging choices for your business and, more importantly, your consumers. Visit https://www.huhtamaki.com/en-us/north-america/foodservice/ for more information.