As we all know, the demand for sustainable packaging has been increasing. Now, customers willingly pay a little extra if they think that the brand is using sustainable packaging material. The same goes for a custom compostable cold cup. Compostable cups are at the forefront of this global shift toward sustainability.
Statista says that the global biodegradable packaging market is projected to reach over $137 billion by 2028. This is not only fueled by the customers’ demand for sustainability, but also due to bans on single-use plastics.
Custom compostable cold cups wholesale ensure the same durability as that provided by plastic cups without any negative impact on the environment. These cups have combined functionality and aesthetics that help brands reduce their carbon footprint. Some of the cup types are:
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
Polyelectric acid is a biopolymer that is produced through the fermentation of renewable resources such as corn starch or cassava. This is an excellent alternative to petroleum-based plastics. This material is used as a lining on the paper material and gives remarkable resistance to moisture.
PLA coating is applied on custom printed paper cups as it composts within 90 to 180 days under an industrial composting environment. High temperature and pressure are required to compost the cups, and they leave no toxins behind. The material offers excellent transparency and is ideal for custom compostable cold cups with lids.
Bagasse
Bagasse is the residue of sugarcane that is obtained after the extraction of juice. This material is converted into the raw material used to manufacture biodegradable cups wholesale. This material has natural strength and rigidity, and when combined with PLA, it gives an impeccable material for cups.
This is more favorable than cardbird as it does not require the cutting of wood. Aside from this, 60 to 890 days are required to decompose this material under industrial conditions. It turns all the resources back into the soil in a few days. Bagasse has a rough texture that makes it more appealing to climate-conscious individuals.
Paperboard With Bio-based Lining
Paperboard compostable cups are widely used to manufacture paper cups. This material has strength and flexibility. After combining it with PLA, the moisture resistance of the material is also enhanced. PLA coating keeps it compostable and resistant to leaks.
PLA combined with paperboard gives 7oz compostable cold cups that are resistant to condensation in cold liquids. As cardboard is an excellent material for printing, it is one of the most common choices for the manufacturing of branded compostable cups.
Bamboo Fiber
Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing renewable plants. It does not require any pesticides or fertilizers, which is why it is a preferable sustainable material for paper manufacturing. This material has strength and smoothness that allows for easy printing. In addition to this, it easily decomposes into its constituent elements within 90 days.
Bamboo custom double-wall paper cups have anti-microbial properties, and when combined with PLA, they become remarkably resistant to moisture. Bamboo reduces the dependency on tree-based paper, which is why most of the sustainable brands prefer to use it.
Printing Used On Compostable Cups
Printing on the cups gives a unique and elegant look while allowing you to create a strong identity for your brand. With printed compostable cold cups, you can get the most unique and alluring designs that will allow you to grab the attention of customers.
One thing that is pertinent to mention here is that all the inks used on the cups are sustainable and food-grade. So when you serve cold beverages in the cups, the condensation will not cause any leaching of hazardous elements. Our printing processes for cups are:
- Flexographic printing: It is cost-effective for bulk runs.
- Offset printing: Offset gives high-quality graphics and logos.
- Digital printing: Short runs with vibrant customization.
- Soy or water-based inks: These two are used for compostable print finishes.
How Shape is Given
Most of the time, brands need compostable cold cups in bulk, which is why we use automated processes to manufacture them. Thai not only increases the effectiveness but also enhances the overall finish and look of the cups. The following processes are used:
Die-Cutting Paperboard Sheets
Large rolls of coated paper lined with poly lactic acid coating are die cut into flat sheets. Each sheet of paper has a curved shape that makes the manufacturing of cups easy.
Forming the Cylinder
The flat sheets are fed into cup-making machines, where the rolls are turned into a cylindrical body. To make sure there is no leak and that the side seam is sealed perfectly, we apply heat and ultrasonic welding along with pressure bonding.
Bottom Disc Insertion
A circular base disk is attached to the cylindrical cups. This base is attached firmly to the cup so that it remains leak-proof. We apply high heat and pressure to create a strong bond.
Rim Curling
The rim of the open edge of the cup is curled outward by a mechanical roller. This will not only reinforce the rim durability but also ensure a firm fit of the lid.
Coatings Applied
Coatings are applied to the cups to enhance their mechanical resistance and make them more appealing in appearance. From matte to glossy, you can choose several options to complement your company’s design and artwork. Some of the options for coatings are:
- PLA is a cornstarch-based bioplastic that is excellent for moisture resistance.
- Water-based coatings for recyclability and compostability.
- Algae-based coatings as an emerging technology for extra sustainability.
Add-ons
Add-ons also have a dual function. They enhance the functionality of custom paper coffee cups and make them look elegant. These add-ons range from simple lids to textured typography. We classify them as functional and aesthetic ones:
Functional Add-Ons
- Lids (compostable CPLA or bagasse)
- Straws (PLA or paper)
- Cup sleeves for insulation
- Leak-proof sealing technology
Aesthetic Add-ons
- Embossed or debossed logos
- Custom-printed graphics with eco inks
- Matte or glossy compostable finishes
- Die-cut windows for branding visibility
Types of Compostable Cups
There are several types of compostable cups, and customers choose them based on their aesthetic preferences and product demand. For cold beverages, usually single-walled cups are used, but there are several options too:
- Single-wall cups are lightweight and suitable for cold beverages.
- Double-wall cups have extra strength and are mostly for branding visibility.
- Ripple-wall cups have a textured outer layer, though more common in hot variants.
Book Your Order Now!
If you have been running a beverage brand and are facing difficulties in getting the attention of customers and maximizing sales, then custom compostable cold cups may be the solution for you. Book your order now at Premium Custom Boxes and get the maximum sales.
