BioPak to release Australian-first PHA-lined disposable cup range later this year

Plant-based product business BioPak has announced an upcoming range of compostable cups lined with polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) biopolymer, which it says is an Australian first.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Bondi-based company said it was now first to market with a compostable packaging sector product: “a cup that truly aligns with the circular economy.”

PHA is a class of biodegradable polymers, created by bacteria in fermentation and identified years ago as a potential substitute for materials including polyolefins, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride.

“PHA has been a long time in the making, with our dedicated team working tirelessly to bring this product to market,” said CEO Gary Smith.  

“As a B Corp, we are always striving to do better and be at the forefront of innovation and R&D, and today marks a historic moment for our industry as we take one step closer to circularity and reducing our impact on the planet.”

BioPak says PHAs are used in the lining of fully-compostable cups, and is the result of years of R&D. 

According to the company, the range will include 8 ounce, 12 ounce and 16 ounce single-wall cups, is certified home compostable to Australian and European Standards (AS5810 and NFT51-800), and will be available at an unspecified date later this year. 

BioPak was established in 2006 and according to its website makes a variety of products, including bags, containers, cups (pictured) and trays from “renewable, plant-based materials”. 

In April it announced the acquisition of Australian-based reusable cup company, Huskee, for an undisclosed amount.

Picture: supplied

Further reading

BioPak acquires reusable cup business Huskee

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