At Made Not To Last, we specialise in providing eco-friendly takeaway packaging — from compostable coffee cups to biodegradable meal boxes — designed to minimise environmental impact without compromising on quality. With so many sustainability terms in circulation, it is important to understand the differences, and why the materials we use like bagasse, PLA, RPET, Kraft paper, and birch wood are better for the planet.
We proudly supply a wide range of eco packaging for cafes, restaurants, and catering companies across the UK.
What’s the Difference Between Compostable, Recyclable and Biodegradable?
Compostable Packaging
Compostable products break down into natural elements in a commercial composting environment, typically within 90 days. They turn into nutrient-rich compost without leaving toxic residues behind. Materials like bagasse and PLA are often compostable, making them ideal for food service businesses looking to lower their carbon footprint with compostable takeaway packaging.
Recyclable Packaging
Recyclable packaging can be collected, processed, and re-manufactured into new products. Materials like RPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate) and Kraft paper are recyclable, offering a closed-loop solution where waste becomes a resource instead of landfill. We offer a range of recyclable cold cups and paper-based solutions for sustainable serving.
Biodegradable Packaging
Biodegradable materials naturally break down over time through the action of microorganisms. However, unlike compostable products, biodegradable items do not necessarily break down into beneficial compost or within a specific time frame. All compostable materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable products are compostable. Our range of biodegradable meal boxes and eco-friendly burger boxes are designed to make disposal easier and cleaner for your customers.
The Sustainable Materials We Use
At Made Not To Last, we carefully select materials based on their environmental impact, durability, and suitability for takeaway food and drink businesses across the UK.
Bagasse
Bagasse is a by-product of sugarcane processing. Instead of being burned or discarded, it is transformed into sturdy food packaging like eco-friendly burger boxes, meal trays, and biodegradable containers. Bagasse is compostable, heat-resistant, and water-resistant, making it a perfect alternative to plastic or polystyrene containers.
- Fully compostable
- Suitable for hot and cold foods
- Reduces agricultural waste
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
PLA is a plant-based bioplastic usually made from fermented corn starch. It is commonly used to line compostable coffee cups and create cold drink cups. PLA looks and feels like traditional plastic but is industrially compostable and derived from renewable resources.
- Industrially compostable
- Ideal for lining cups to prevent leaks
- Plant-based and renewable
RPET (Recycled PET)
RPET is made from recycled plastic bottles, giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. We use RPET for recyclable cold cups and lids, offering a durable, clear alternative to virgin plastic.
- Made from recycled content
- Fully recyclable
- Reduces demand for virgin plastics
Kraft Paper
Kraft paper is made from chemical pulp produced in the kraft process, giving it a strong, natural-looking finish. It is widely used for bags, meal boxes, and wrappers.
- Biodegradable and recyclable
- Strong and durable
- Natural and minimalistic appearance
Birch Wood
Birch wood is used to make strong, splinter-free disposable cutlery. Sourced from sustainably managed forests, birch wood is a biodegradable, renewable material perfect for eco-conscious foodservice.
- 100 percent biodegradable
- Renewable and sustainable
- Stylish, natural appearance
Why Choosing the Right Packaging Matters
Choosing the right materials for your takeaway packaging can make a big difference to your environmental impact. At Made Not To Last, we supply a full range of sustainable takeaway packaging to cafes, restaurants, and catering companies across the UK.
Whether you need compostable coffee cups, recyclable cold cups, or biodegradable meal boxes, we are committed to offering products that are made to serve, not to last.
If you are looking for a takeaway packaging supplier in the UK who truly understands the balance between practicality, style and sustainability, Made Not To Last is your trusted partner.