Did you know that plastic dates back to the late 1800s? Today, it is still vastly used for food packaging and single-use cutlery due to its low production cost, versatility, and durability.
However, plastic is among the biggest polluters on our planet. This is largely because plastic does not biodegrade and has a long life cycle ranging from 20 to 500 years. Its improper use, frequent overuse, and ineffective recycling have caused significant environmental damage, leading to costly cleanup efforts and posing serious health risks to both people and animals. The European Environment Agency (EEA) reveals a shocking statistic: only 9% of plastics ever produced have been recycled and 12% of plastics have been incinerated.
Because of these harmful effects, food & beverages companies are looking for more sustainable and less harmful alternatives for disposable food packaging and cutlery.
Fortunately, such alternatives exist! For example, paper cutlery and wooden cutlery are becoming a more popular and eco-friendly choice.
Paper vs Wooden Cutlery
Wooden cutlery is commonly used as a cheaper eco-friendly alternative. But it comes with certain limitations in practical use.
- Wooden cutlery takes months to decompose in landfills.
- Can absorb liquids, risking the creation of bacteria and compromising hygiene.
- Tends to develop splinters and cracks, which can be harmful for the consumer.
- Consumers complain about the texture and mouthfeel of wooden cutlery, describing it as taste-altering. Some find it less suitable for certain foods, such as soups, due to it’s shallow shape.
- From a business perspective, wooden cutlery offers limited options for brand customization.
Though wooden cutlery has its place in the shift away from plastic cutlery, it does not always meet the performance expectations of the end consumer.
Paper cutlery, on the other hand, is a great eco-friendly alternative to both plastic and wooden cutlery.
- Paper cutlery takes 2-6 weeks to decompose at home or industrially.
- Lower carbon footprint during the production process.
- 100% recyclable, and is fully decomposed in 2 to 6 weeks
- Great user experience thanks to its attractive, customizable look, smooth surface and taste-neutrality.
- Poses no risk of splinters or cracks, making it completely safe for kids and adults.
Not only is paper cutlery less harmful for the end consumer, it is also more sustainable than wooden cutlery, as shown in the image above.
Altogether, the use of paper for cutlery products reaps benefits for all, and is a step further in the path towards a greener planet by preserving resources for future generations.
Why Choose Paper Cutlery?
The market of disposable cutlery is always changing and evolving, and customers want more eco-friendly products, with a focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance, such as the global plastic bans.
Current trends suggest an increased consumer demand for hygiene, convenience and efficiency, regarding disposable cutlery needs and preferences. The qualities of paper cutlery, described above, position it as a strong alternative within the broader disposable cutlery range.
Customization of products is another key trend to consider, as more companies are now turning to eco-friendly disposables to strengthen both customer experience and brand image. Paper solutions are especially suited to this, with many products being developed to meet the expectations of a more discerning market—where premium feel, performance and sustainability are no longer optional, but essential.
About Hello Straw
Hello Straw, is the market leader, pioneer and global provider of sustainable paper products for single-use. We aim to deliver the highest quality and safety through paper products.
In 2018, we introduced the first paper straw as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic. Within just a few years, plastic straws disappeared across Europe.
Today, we are taking the next step by producing premium paper cutlery – recyclable, compostable and sustainable. Our cutlery is 100% plastic-free without any coating.
We stand for professionalism and social responsibility, while striving to find a balance between sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Types of Paper Cutlery
Essential Cutlery
Paper knife
Standard sizes
130 and 165 mm
Paper fork
Standard sizes
130 and 158 mm
Paper spoon
Standard sizes
130 and 158 mm
Unique Cutlery
At Hello Straw we like to be innovative and to think out of the box. Our unique cutlery items are meant to offer convenience, with just one utensil.
Ramen Spork
3-in-1
Ideal Occasions for Using Disposable Paper Tableware
The cutlery we offer is suitable for all occasions, such as:
Events, Parties, and Catering Services
Celebrating a birthday party, a wedding, or a graduation. Your customers might be looking for durable, sustainable, and customizable cutlery. We offer all the supplies needed for a good party:
- The 3-in-1, a versatile utensil for all types of foods.
- The cake knife for easily cutting and eating cake.
- Dessert spoons – for ice cream, yogurt or other creamy desserts.
- Paper straws with custom prints
Takeaway and Fast-Food Businesses
Companies in this sector seek durable, personalized and practical utensils. Some products that match this are:
- The service set is a useful all-in-one product, which you can customize to promote your brand:
- Choose the cutlery items
- Select the color, print, or embossment
- Design the packaging artwork
- The detachable cutlery – fork, knife or spoon is perfect to use for yogurt with toppings, cup noodles and packaged salads. This product can come in bulk and individual paper or BOPP wrap and is customizable, and safe for use.
- The ramen spork and chopsticks – the ultimate cutlery combination for Asian cuisine restaurants or chains.
Airlines and Onboard Experience
For catering on board flights, we have the perfect eco-friendly options:
- The cutlery board, convenient for storing and also suitable as lid.
- The service set – customizable to match airlines’ branding.
- The stirrers and picks – customizable and convenient for drinks and tapas.
Conclusion
The transition from plastic to more sustainable cutlery disposables, such as paper cutlery or other bio-Innovations is both advantageous and necessary. With the current environmental concerns escalating rapidly, the need to keep up by finding alternative eco-friendly and biodegradable solutions remains predominant. Paper cutlery is a superior choice due to its biodegradability, composability and recyclable nature. It provides not only a great dining experience, but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint.
Whether it is for day-to-day use, special occasions, paper cutlery is a viable option to select. With continuous technological advancements, paper cutlery is leading the path into a greener planet and more sustainable consumption. The future of sustainable dining is in good hands!
