Burger King is currently experimenting with innovative cups that could potentially transform the norm for fast food packaging while also mitigating environmental hazards.
Recycling fast food packaging can be a difficult task due to the presence of a waxy coating on most cups, which is designed to prevent liquids from seeping through the paper.
The catering company in Finland is searching for alternatives that would enable fast-food cups to be recycled in the same way as regular plastic, which is the reason behind their efforts.
Restel has implemented Sulapac material for cups in two Burger King locations, as reported by Renewable Carbon News. This allows customers to return the cups to specified restaurants after use.
Despite expectations, these unique cups have the ability to be reused up to 200 times before they are considered ineffective.
Burger King is trialing new cups that can be recycled more than 200 times
“According to Heidi Peltola, the head of product at Sulapac, all of our materials are capable of being broken down by naturally occurring microbes. This means that unlike traditional plastic, Sulapac materials will not build up in the food chain.”
This indicates that the material is suitable for industrial composting, undergoing natural decomposition without the concern of microplastics.
Anna Koskinen, who works as Restel’s sustainability and communications manager, pointed out that by partnering with Sulapac, they are able to address the harmful effects that single-use and petroleum-based plastics have on the environment and climate. This partnership also allows for progress in the development of a circular bioeconomy.
This new venture will first be tested for two months at specific Burger King locations before being fully implemented. It is currently uncertain if it will be expanded to larger markets in the US and UK.
Burger King is currently implementing significant modifications to its menus and packaging. As of June, the company revealed its plans to test out a selection of freshly grilled chicken sandwiches.
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