Parkside launches compostable packaging solution for individual tea bags

Flexible packaging specialist Parkside has developed new packaging for Bird & Blend's portfolio of loose tea bags, which it says offers optimal barrier properties and is fully compostable.

Parkside says the packaging for Bird & Blend's loose tea packs (already plastic-free) is made from Futamura's bio-based paper and metallized NatureFlexTM cellulose film, clearly made from sustainably sourced wood pulp.

Parkside claims the packaging has "excellent" barrier properties. This is said to help preserve the freshness of Bird & Blend's loose tea bags and extend their shelf life.

Parkside says the new packaging can fully decompose in 26 weeks, depending on the efficiency of the composting set-up. The materials reportedly return to the soil with no adverse impact on the environment.

Staci Bye, Parkside New Business Development Manager, commented: "The steps Bird & Blend has taken reflect a key message we are seeing in the packaging industry, which is that consumers are becoming more aware of 'sustainability' and want clear actions that allow them to play their part in protecting the environment. Compostable packaging is a very effective way to do this."

Matt Hendon, Bird & Blend Operations Director, added: "As a business, we are very aware that our industry sometimes faces scrutiny when it comes to sustainability and ethical integrity. Our tea bags are already plastic-free, so the next step was to improve the environmental credentials of our packaging."

Parkside has been working on the research and development of compostable laminates for nearly a decade and now offers more than 20 TÜV-certified compostable structures as part of its Park2NatureTM range. The company has already worked with companies such as Riverford to develop home compostable tomato packaging, as well as compostable bags for its Optibac children's range of gummy probiotic supplements.