Environmentally friendly packaging isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s becoming a necessity for conscious consumers. As governments worldwide tighten regulations on packaging waste, businesses in the FMCG sector, particularly supplements and functional foods, must prioritise sustainability to stay ahead.
A good starting point is understanding your local recycling guidelines. Recycling capabilities can vary greatly, so what’s accepted in one area might not be elsewhere. In New Zealand, for example, materials like paper, glass, and plastic need to be separated by type to be properly recycled. Multi-component packaging can complicate this process. For instance, cardboard canisters with tin lids (often used for protein powders) must be dismantled to ensure effective recycling.
When packaging supplements or functional foods, preserving nutrients and ingredient quality is key. Packaging solutions must protect against light, air, and moisture. Fortunately, there are many innovative eco-friendly packaging options. Glass jars, compostable pouches, and bio-based plastic canisters offer environmentally friendly solutions. A standout example is The Gut Cø’s ceramic vessels, which combine functionality and beauty with handmade airtight containers and refill pouches — an elegant and environmentally friendly approach.
Another sustainable option is aluminium, which is highly recyclable and can be reused countless times. Radiance recently transitioned their supplement and superfood ranges to reusable and recyclable aluminium packaging. However, it’s worth noting that currently in New Zealand, aluminium is sent to Australia and Asia for recycling. While aluminium packaging offers amazing sustainability benefits and is generally considered safe, I encourage brands to choose food-grade, BPA-free lined aluminium containers wherever possible. It’s all about balancing environmental care and product integrity.
Ceres Organics has been a leader in plastic reduction for years. In 2017, they introduced a world-first triple-layer home compostable pack across much of their range, aiming to inspire other brands to follow suit. Little Bird Organics later adopted a similar approach. Unfortunately, the infrastructure for home compostable packaging hasn’t developed enough to make it consistently viable. Compostable packs also come with a higher price tag — often three to four times that of conventional options — requiring both manufacturers and consumers to share the cost.
An alternative to compostable pouches is POLLASTIC, a material made from ocean-bound plastic pollution collected in Southeast Asia. This reclaimed plastic is transformed into mailing satchels, garment bags, and pallet wrap, all of which are soft-plastic recyclable. This initiative not only prevents plastic pollution from becoming microplastics but also reduces the need for virgin plastic.
Eco-friendly packaging isn’t just beneficial for the planet; it’s great for business too. Environmentally conscious packaging can enhance your brand’s reputation and build consumer loyalty. Retailers like HealthPost exemplify this, encouraging the brands they retail to minimise packaging waste. Their iconic jiffy bags, made from paper and recycled post-consumer materials, are a perfect example of how thoughtful packaging can become a recognisable part of a brand’s identity.
Adding eco-certifications to your packaging is another powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to sustainability. Certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for paper and card packaging ensure compliance with environmental standards and resonate with eco-conscious consumers. Participating in programmes like New Zealand’s Soft Plastic Recycling Scheme can further elevate your brand’s green credentials.
For bio-based plastic options, consider certifications like I’m Green Bio-Based, which I recently used for Eve’s Workout with Me packaging. Made from renewable resources like sugarcane or cornstarch, these plant-based plastics are recyclable (grades 1, 2, and 5 in New Zealand) and can even be repurposed into products like fence posts, park benches, or recycling bins.
Ready to Flourish? At Wildflower Design Studio, I’m passionate about helping wellness brands thrive sustainably. Together, we’ll create packaging that reflects your values, protects the planet, and captivates your audience. Let’s design something that sets your brand apart while making a positive impact on the environment.
