Canadian company, Cascades, has launched a recycled and recyclable cardboard tray for food packaging and has won two prizes for it. The product could be a substitute for styrofoam trays which are often used in Canada to package meat and other food products.
Styrofoam, properly known as expanded polystyrene foam, is expensive and difficult to recycle and is not recyclable in most Canadian communities. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce reported that in 2012, 80 per cent of styrofoam waste in Canada ended up in landfills or waterways. That amounted to more than 6.500 tonnes. Discarded styrofoam can make its way through waterways and into the ocean.
Discarded styrofoam can end up in landfills and in the ocean. (iStock)
Food industry holds competition for innovative projects
The Cascades food tray is composed of recycled fibres, mostly sourced from post-consumer sources that have been certified “Recycled” under the Forest Stewardship Council. It has a water-based coating that protects it from moisture but does not compromise the ability to recycle the cardboard. It is has been tested to make sure it can be used by automated equipment.
The food industry represented by The Quebec Food Processing Council holds competitions for innovative projects and the Cascades tray won honours in the Packaging and Technology and Productivity categories.
The cardboard tray is made of recylced fibres and is heated and pressed. (Cascades Inc.)
Product will be made in Quebec province
Cascades launched its “thermoformed cardboard tray” in September 2020. It is formed using pressure and heat. The product is currently being tested by food processing companies and retailers. It is expected to be approved in the coming months. The tray will be manufactured in the province of Quebec and marketed there first. But Cascades is hopeful to sell it across North america.
Cascades Inc. was established in 1964 and specializes in making products with recycled fibres. It employs 12,000 people in over 90 facilities in North America and Europe. It claims half a century of experience in recycling and ongoing efforts to deliver innovative products.
With files from CBC News.
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