All about Bagasse: Eco-Friendly Material for Packaging

To combat plastic pollution, more and more people and companies worldwide are crossing over to sustainable packaging. Aside from helping our environment conserve resources, this kind of packaging can also help brands reduce their carbon footprints while boosting consumer perception. 

Fortunately, there are various materials that are regarded as sustainable – and one of the best options is known as bagasse.  

What is bagasse?

Bagasse is a by-product of the sugarcane industry and is the fibrous substance that remains after the sugarcane juice of the plant has been harvested. 

What’s it used for?

Although a ‘waste’ product that was usually disposed of or left to rot, bagasse has become a trusted renewable resource for making a wide variety of eco-friendly packaging items that are both sustainable and practical, including anything from takeaway containers and bowls to plates, cups, etc. 

What are the benefits of sustainable packaging made from bagasse?

• Durability: As bagasse is rich in cellulose fibres, any packaging designed from bagasse will remain strong and durable. 
• Versatility: Anything from bowls and plates to trays, containers, and shopping bags can be made from bagasse, as it is a perfectly “green” alternative to traditional plastic. 
• Sustainability: As sugarcane can be grown and harvested multiple times, it remains a trusted sustainable resource. 
• Eco-friendliness: Eco-friendly packaging made from bagasse remains 100% biodegradable, 100% recyclable, and free of toxins and chemicals.
• Compostability: Differentiating them from plastic or polystyrene products, bagasse items can be industrially and home-compostable. When composted, the bagasse will break down along with the food waste (within 90 days) to become nutrient-rich compost that’s ideal for fertiliser and soil conditioner. Compare this compostable packaging to ordinary plastic products which can take about 400 years to completely disappear!  

Are bagasse products safe to eat from?

Since no harmful chemicals or toxins are included in bagasse, it remains a safe choice for making packaging for food and tableware. Add to that the fact that bagasse also possesses excellent heat resistance, meaning it won’t melt or warp when exposed to hot liquids and/or foods. 

And did we mention bagasse products are also microwave- and freezer safe?  

Bagasse products at MBA Green

So why are we so excited about bagasse and any sustainable packaging products that can be made with it? Because at MBA Green, creating and distributing eco-friendly packaging to various industries (such as food and beverage, retail, pharmaceuticals…) is our main mission. And for over 10 years, we have been making use of eco-friendly materials like kraft paper, sugarcane, cardboard, and bamboo (among others) to help our clients transform their regular products into “green” ones. 

Think of us as your trusty packaging provider without the pollution! 

But that’s not all. We also make our packaging customisable, allowing our customers to use our products as promotional items for their brands, such as branded takeaway boxes, shopping bags with any approved logo and social media channels, and more. 

Interested in finding out how our sustainable packaging can help “greenify” your brand while also promoting your company? Then contact us TODAY.