Party with Purpose

What's the alternative to single use plastic cutlery?

In a world where convenience trumps sustainability, the ubiquitous single-use plastic utensils have become a nasty environmental concern. By getting marketed in the last century as the most convenient, cleanest option this habit has carried on for decades. Large scale production costs for plastic dinnerware are massively lower making it an attractive choice for anyone trying to cut costs. Environmental costs, needless to say, are massively high.

Summer parties, camping, festivities, holiday bashes, corporate events - any place where social gatherings involve food, we usually see plastic cutlery in the mix like spoons, forks, knives, plates, cups, bowls. Let's learn about alternatives. But first.. a “reel” quick one on how a plastic fork is made!

Comparing cutlery made of Bamboo, Corn and Plastic

Eco-conscious and health conscious consumers can now choose from various options in party-use cutlery like: bamboo, sugarcane, corn starch, and use durable plates and bowls made of paper with no “waxy” lining.

Here’s a comparison of cutlery (fork in this case) made out of bamboo, corn starch and plastic:

The better disposable cutlery is...

Bamboo is the most sustainable option for disposable use due to it being a fast growing, natural, compostable material with low negative environmental impact, and a safer material - although it is higher in cost. Corn-based PLA cutlery is a moderate choice but comes with limitations in compostability, processing and use. Plastic remains the cheapest, yet the least sustainable and the most harmful to our health and for our planet - the worst possible combination for our overall well-being.

Hope this information helps make your next party eco-friendly! A small step towards eco-consciousness, a big leap towards a clean future. 🍽️ Let's eat...