When you think of rice paper, you think of the delicate wrappers used for siu mai and spring rolls. However, rice paper is more than just a simple food wrapper. Companies are now exploring its potential as an eco-friendly packaging material.
But how does rice paper stack up against familiar packaging materials like plastic and cardboard? Keep reading to learn more.
Can rice paper be used for packaging?
Most traditional packaging materials are non-recyclable. To meet consumer demand, manufacturers have to create new compostable packages from scratch, which leads to resource depletion and more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
On the other hand, rice paper is made from a plant called the Tetrapanax papyrifer (commonly known as the rice paper plant). The plant is mechanically processed alongside other renewable materials like bamboo or rice straw pulp. These raw materials require fewer resources to maintain, and some can be regrown to address growing demands.
Rice paper is also lightweight and resistant to damage, making it easier for companies to deliver foodstuffs to their customers quickly and at the highest quality possible. All of these properties make rice paper a reliable alternative to traditional packaging materials.
Uses of rice paper packaging
Rice paper packaging can be used to store and transport various items, such as
- Dried foodstuffs.
- Beverages
- Fishing lures.
- Crafts supplies.
- Toys.
- Pet treats.
- Medicine.
- Cosmetic items.
What are the benefits of rice paper packaging?
Switching to rice paper packaging has a positive impact not just on the environment but also on the packaging industry as a whole. Some of these benefits include:
- Reducing environmental pollution
Rice paper is made from various biodegradable and compostable ingredients, such as rice straw and bamboo. By switching to rice paper, companies can minimise wastage and reduce their carbon footprint.
- Allowing customisation
Rice paper can be shaped into different forms, like zipper bags, shaped pouches, or roll films. Moreover, companies can add their logos, colours, and other branding elements to make their packaging more attractive.
- Reducing transportation costs and energy consumption
Rice paper packages are lightweight and require less fuel from trucks to deliver them to their destination. Thus, deliverers can save money by not having to make frequent visits to the petrol station.
- Meet customer demand
According to a PwC report, 51 per cent of Asia Pacific customers expressed that they were buying more sustainable products to reduce their environmental impact. Switching to rice paper packaging allows businesses to align with these trends and prove their commitment to environmental conservation.
Rice paper vs. Kraft paper
Kraft paper differs from rice paper in that the former is made from wood pulp that is treated in a strong alkaline solution. The resulting process creates fibres that are longer and more durable than those of any other type of paper packaging.
In their natural state, rice paper and kraft paper are biodegradable and recyclable. However, they cannot preserve foodstuffs like coffee for an extended period unless they are lined with special coatings.
Choosing between rice paper and kraft paper depends on the volume of foodstuffs you’re transporting and the recycling facilities in your local area. If your company is packaging small amounts of coffee in an area with fewer recycling facilities, you can choose rice paper packaging.
On the other hand, if your customers are located near paper recycling facilities and are looking to package larger volumes of goods, using treated kraft paper may be the best solution.
Rice paper packaging costs
Rice paper packaging’s lightweight nature translates to lower shipping costs, and the fact that it can be recycled into new packages reduces the need to extract new raw materials. This cost-effectiveness is a win-win for your business and the planet.
FAQ
Why is rice paper packaging important?
In PwC’s Voice of the Consumer Survey 2024 report, 51 per cent of Asia Pacific customers expressed their willingness to buy sustainable products. Rice paper packaging meets this need, being biodegradable and recyclable, and thus plays a crucial role in controlling pollution levels.
Is rice paper environmentally friendly?
Rice paper packaging production has a lower carbon footprint, and it can be reused and recycled into other products. These properties reduce the amount of waste in landfills and contribute to a cleaner and safer Earth.
Are rice paper bags biodegradable?
Yes, rice paper bags (especially untreated and unlined ones) are biodegradable because they are made from natural materials without synthetic additives.
How durable is rice paper?
Untreated rice paper bags offer limited protection against tearing, moisture, and temperature changes. To maximise their protection and preserve the quality of their goods, some companies have opted to layer their packaging with other elements, such as aluminium.
Is rice paper packaging costlier than plastic?
Despite having low shipping costs, rice paper packaging is outpriced by plastic, especially when the former is layered. Before making the switch to rice paper packaging, companies need to analyse their costs with future demand.
Concluding remarks
Rice paper is not just for wrapping foods. It’s also a versatile, eco-friendly solution for keeping goods safe until they reach their destinations. By making the switch to rice paper, you cannot only meet consumer demand but also significantly reduce your environmental footprint.
