Snack Wrappers: Plastic Pollution In Our Daily Lives

Plastic packaging is a common and convenient way to store food, but it has come under scrutiny in recent years due to its negative environmental impact and potential health risks. Snack wrappers, in particular, have been identified as a significant source of plastic waste, with their flexible polypropylene plastic and aluminium composition proving difficult to recycle. The difficulty in separating these materials means that even when snack wrappers are recycled, some parts often end up in landfills. This has led to a growing movement to reduce plastic waste, with some companies offering zero-waste solutions and others encouraging consumers to switch to snacks with packaging designed by nature, such as bananas. Despite these efforts, the convenience and low cost of plastic packaging continue to make it a popular choice for many food manufacturers and consumers.

Characteristics and Values of Plastic in Snack Wrappers

Energy bar wrappers are often made from two layers of flexible polypropylene plastic

Energy bars are a popular snack for busy consumers looking for a quick bite, a meal replacement, or a nutritional supplement. Energy bar wrappers are often made from two layers of flexible polypropylene plastic. This plastic film is usually coated with foil or a metallic finish, which makes the wrappers extremely difficult to recycle. The flexible plastic gets caught in the gears of recycling equipment, leading to costly repairs and disruptions in plant operations.

The multi-layered construction of energy bar wrappers, combining plastic and aluminum, is a common feature of modern packaging. This type of packaging is used for a wide range of products, from snack bags and candy wrappers to baby food pouches. The convenience and extended shelf life provided by this packaging come at the cost of sustainability. These wrappers are rarely made with recycled content, and their complex structure makes them challenging to recycle through standard programs.

Some companies are attempting to address this issue by offering innovative packaging solutions for energy bars. For example, Unwrapp’d is exploring the idea of bite-sized energy bars that can be stored in recyclable jars, eliminating the need for single-serve wrappers. Made in Nature offers energy balls and bites as an alternative to traditional energy bars, reducing the amount of packaging required. Creation Nation provides mixes for consumers to make their own energy bars at home, which can then be stored in reusable containers.

Regrained, a company that initially experimented with a single layer of compostable cellulose film for packaging, encountered issues with product staleness. As a result, they transitioned to a multi-layered metalized film, acknowledging the challenges of creating sustainable and functional wrappers. This highlights the complex trade-offs between product freshness and environmental considerations in the packaging industry.

While some companies are making strides toward more sustainable solutions, the recycling of energy bar wrappers remains a complex issue. The current lack of widely accepted recycling programs for these wrappers underscores the need for continued innovation in the industry.

Plasticizers are added to some plastics to make them flexible

Plasticizers are additives that are incorporated into some plastics to enhance their flexibility, softness, and ease of handling. They are commonly used in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to transform it from a hard and brittle state into a flexible and mouldable material suitable for products like vinyl siding, roofing, flooring, and electric wire insulation.

The flexibility of plastics is achieved through the addition of plasticizers, which are typically low-volatility liquids or solid substances. These plasticizers dissolve in the polymer matrix, reducing intermolecular forces and decreasing viscosity. This process facilitates the movement of polymer chains, resulting in increased flexibility and plasticity.

The efficiency of a plasticizer is influenced by its molecular weight and the linearity of its alcohol chain. A lower molecular weight generally leads to higher plasticizer efficiency. Additionally, the polar nature of plasticizers, such as their compatibility with the PVC matrix, plays a crucial role in enhancing the flexibility of the plastic.

Plasticizers are not limited to use in PVC. They are also added to concrete and stucco mixtures to improve their workability and reduce the water content required. This addition expedites the drying time of these mixtures. Furthermore, plasticizers are employed in adhesives, rubber, and even in certain applications of energetic materials like rocket propellants.

While plasticizers offer significant advantages in terms of flexibility and ease of handling, there are concerns regarding the safety of certain polymer plasticizers. Some low molecular weight ortho-phthalates have been associated with potential endocrine disruption and developmental toxicity. As a result, the selection of plasticizers involves careful consideration of performance, processing, cost, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Plastic wrap can be made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE)

Plastic wrap is a thin plastic film used for sealing food items in containers to keep them fresh for longer. It is typically sold on rolls in boxes with a cutting edge. Plastic wrap is estimated to be roughly 0.0005 inches (12.7 μm) thick, with the trend being to produce even thinner wrap, particularly for household use.

LDPE is commonly used in food packaging due to its moisture resistance and safety for food contact. It provides protection from chemical, biological, and physical contaminants, helping to preserve food and maintain its quality. LDPE is also used in electrical insulation, adhesives, sealants, and injection moulding.

LDPE plastic wrap can be identified by the number 4 inside chasing arrows. It is recyclable, but it is important to check with local authorities as some programs only accept rigid LDPE.

Plastic packaging is popular in the food industry due to its low price and convenience

Plastic packaging is widely used in the food industry due to its low price and convenience. It is lightweight, flexible, and strong, making it ideal for storing and transporting food products. Plastic wrap can also help prevent food from perishing, extending its shelf life and maintaining its quality. It provides protection from gases, moisture, light, microorganisms, insects, and physical damage. Additionally, plastic packaging can reduce food waste, tag food information, ease distribution processes, and increase product visibility and microwavability.

However, there are growing concerns about the potential health risks associated with plastic packaging. It is well known that substances used to make plastics can leach into food, and there is a possibility that undesirable chemicals, such as plasticizers, could be released from plastic materials into food products. One such chemical, diethylhexyl adipate (DEHA), has been the subject of public concern due to its potential exposure to consumers. While the levels of exposure to DEHA are considered safe according to animal studies, there are still worries about its potential impact on human health.

Another issue with plastic packaging is its environmental impact. Most plastic snack wrappers are made from a combination of plastic and aluminum, also known as metallized plastic or metallized film. This type of packaging is challenging to recycle because the two materials are difficult to separate. As a result, these wrappers often end up in landfills or are incinerated, contributing to environmental pollution and waste.

To address the environmental concerns, some companies have started to explore alternative materials for packaging. For example, foil-lined wrappers made from multi-layered films are being used as a substitute for single-use plastic packaging. However, these wrappers also present challenges for recycling programs as the different layers need to be separated before they can be recycled.

Despite the concerns about health and environmental risks, plastic packaging remains prevalent in the food industry due to its low cost and convenience. However, there is a growing need for more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives that can provide the same benefits as plastic packaging without the negative impacts.

Some companies, like TerraCycle, accept flexible plastic-based snack packaging for recycling

Plastic packaging is a significant contributor to the global plastic waste crisis. Flexible plastic, in particular, is often not accepted by local recycling programs, leading to a high rate of disposal in landfills or incineration. However, some companies, like TerraCycle, offer innovative solutions to recycle flexible plastic-based snack packaging, diverting it from landfills and giving it a new lease of life.

TerraCycle's Zero Waste Box™ program provides a convenient way for individuals and businesses to recycle snack wrappers and other flexible plastic packaging. The program accepts any brand and size of flexible plastic-based snack packaging, ensuring that even small or unusual formats can be recycled effectively. This comprehensive approach encourages widespread participation and helps reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste.

The process of recycling through TerraCycle is straightforward and user-friendly. Individuals or businesses can purchase a Zero Waste Box™ specifically designed for snack wrappers and candy wrappers. Once the box is filled with eligible waste, it can be shipped back to TerraCycle using the provided prepaid shipping label. This convenient process removes the barriers often associated with recycling and makes it accessible to those eager to reduce their environmental footprint.

It is important to note that certain items are restricted from being sent to TerraCycle. Hazardous waste, such as lithium-ion batteries, pressurized canisters, and medical sharps, should be excluded. Additionally, any electronic devices covered by state e-waste regulations, as per the California Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003, are not accepted. By adhering to these guidelines, participants can ensure the safety and efficiency of the recycling process.

Once the waste is received by TerraCycle, it undergoes a meticulous sorting process at their Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs). Advanced sorting technologies are employed to categorize the materials based on their characteristics and composition. This step is crucial in ensuring that different types of plastic and other materials are separated for effective recycling. Overall, TerraCycle's acceptance of flexible plastic-based snack packaging for recycling offers a promising solution to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability.

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