Huhtamaki has developed a new line of paper straws after having invested in new, purpose-built machinery.
The straws, which are available in various sizes, are made of fibre from sustainably managed forests and 100% of the paper used in the products and in their wrapping is certified by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).
Finland-headquartered Huhtamaki said the straws have been tested and certified for food safety in Europe, China and the US.
Last year, the European Union agreed to ban a range of items made from plastic as of 2021, including straws, cutlery, cups, drink stirrers, and sticks for balloons.
Huhtamaki is now expanding its paper straw manufacturing capacity into “key markets across Europe and globally”.
Neal McCone, of Huhtamaki’s foodservice Europe-Asia-Oceania business segment, said: “Our paper straws are crafted to be strong, reliable and functional. We have invested in new, purpose-built machinery to deliver premium product quality. We are confident that we can offer paper straws that are durable and superior in performance compared to the current market offering. Our straws are also both odour and taint free.
“In addition to new machines, we have also invested into new manufacturing setups for paper straws. We look forward to the opportunity to offer a sustainable choice, grow the market and be the leading supplier. With our initial output, we are serving McDonald’s in the UK and across Europe as one of their main suppliers.”
The launch comes after a range of companies – including Coca-Cola Amatil, McDonald’s, Diageo and Pernod Ricard – have pledged to reduce or eliminate their use of plastic straws.
Companies are responding to heightened consumer concerns about the impact of non-biodegradable plastic on the environment and oceans.
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