EPR Fees 2026–27: What Packaging Actually Costs You (and How to Cut It)​

Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging waste and recycling

EPR Fees 2026–27: What Packaging Actually Costs You (and How to Cut It) If your packaging budget has jumped without a corresponding change in volume, UK Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees are very likely the reason. Phase 3 rates take effect from April 2026, and most procurement teams haven’t yet modelled what that means for […]

Paper Straws vs PLA Straws : Why EU Law Matters for Your Business

Side-by-side comparison of paper straws and PLA straws

Paper Straws vs PLA Straws: Why EU Law Matters for Your Business Choosing between paper straws vs PLA straws has become a strategic decision for cafés, restaurants, hotels, stadiums, and event operators. As sustainability expectations rise and regulations on single-use plastics continue to tighten across Europe and the UK, businesses need to understand the differences […]

EU Single-Use Plastics Directive: The Complete Compliance Guide 2026

Close-up of compliant packaging on a cafe counter, featuring a cold drink with a paper straw and a stack of kraft paper takeaway cups. Small PEFC and FSC certification logos are visibly printed on the paper cup and the straw wrapper, which is resting open.

EU Single-Use Plastics Directive: The Complete Compliance Guide 2026 Many hospitality buyers switched away from plastic straws in 2021 and assumed they had met EU requirements. However, the EU Single-Use Plastics (SUP) Directive has continued to evolve, with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations adding new compliance and cost requirements since the end of 2024. Businesses […]

Can You Microwave Paper Cups? The Safety Guide | 2026

Can You Microwave Paper Cups - Test

Can You Microwave Paper Cups? The Safety Guide Most disposable paper cups aren’t built for microwave use. Learn which coatings pose real risks, how to identify safe cups, and what hospitality buyers need to verify before sourcing. Request Free Samples The Short Answer: Standard disposable paper cups should not be microwaved because they often have […]

Plastic Free July: B2B Packaging Procurement Action Plan

Plastic Free July: B2B Packaging Procurement Action Plan Every July, procurement teams get a message from marketing or comms that starts something like “we’re supporting Plastic Free July this year, what have we changed?” If you buy packaging for a living, you know that question usually lands with less notice than it should. This guide […]

Paper Straws vs Metal Straws: Which Is the Better Business Choice in 2026?

Comparison of paper straws and metal straws as eco-friendly alternatives to plastic straws for restaurants and businesses.

By Hello Straw Product TeamLast updated: March 2026 As sustainability expectations continue to rise in 2026, businesses across hospitality, food service, travel, and events are under growing pressure to eliminate plastic straws. Governments are tightening regulations, consumers increasingly expect eco-friendly alternatives, and companies want solutions that align with both environmental goals and operational efficiency. Two […]

Paper Cutlery vs Steel Cutlery: The Hygiene Debate

By Hello Straw Product TeamLast updated: March 2026 Hygiene has always been important in food service, but in recent years it has become an even bigger priority for businesses and customers alike. Restaurants, airlines, caterers, healthcare providers, and delivery services all need to ensure that utensils are safe, clean, and handled properly. When choosing between […]

Paper Forks for Cup Noodles: Sustainable In-Pack Cutlery Solution

Sustainable In-Pack Cutlery Solution by Hello Straw

By Hello Straw Product TeamLast updated: January 2026 As sustainability reshapes food packaging worldwide, the instant noodle and cup food industry continues to innovate, yet one key element of true convenience is still missing. Most cup foods are sold without any in-pack cutlery, meaning they cannot easily be eaten on the go. A similar challenge […]

How Paper Cutlery Helps Solve Airline Sustainability

On board catering

Airlines are giving “in-flight sustainability” a whole new meaning. Today, it’s not just about serving meals efficiently — it’s about what those meals are served in. From trays to cutlery, every material choice now impacts safety, fuel efficiency, and even how a brand is perceived. While regulations have nudged airlines toward compostable and recyclable options, […]

Food-Safe Paper Pouches: Packaging Solutions for the F&B Industry

Paper Pouches Blog

In today’s fast-changing food and beverage (F&B) industry, packaging does more than just contain food — it shapes customer experience, strengthens brand identity, and signals environmental responsibility. Among eco-friendly options, paper food pouches have become a reliable, eco-friendly choice that blends functionality, hygiene, and attractive design. What Are Food-Safe Paper Pouches? Paper food pouches are […]