UK-based KCC Packaging has set up a pilot production line to manufacture biodegradable food trays for the ready meal market.
Claimed to use a waterproof barrier, the company's food trays are said to be made from bagasse, a by-product of sugarcane.
According to the company, the new tray can be microwaved, frozen and then either recycled as paper fibre or put on the compost.
KCC Packaging developer Kevin Clarke said the company during the pilot production phase had noticed the benefits that bagasse or bamboo trays have as against traditional CPET and aluminium trays.
"This is the ability to biodegrade, lower carbon footprint needing fewer carbon credits and subsequent reduced impact on landfill," added Clarke.
"Since the KCC barrier trays will be the same size as existing CPET ones, there will be no expensive changes necessary to the manufacturing process, allowing an easy changeover for food manufacturers."
"With ever more ready meals being sold, and subsequently trays going to landfill, I'm confident that our plant-based, low carbon trays can help supermarkets reduce their carbon footprints, as these trays are the most natural green alternative for supermarkets and food manufacturers."
