EcoLogic Foodservice Solutions proudly announces the upcoming launch of its comprehensive line of compostable plant-based plates, cups, flatware, and to-go containers set for Earth Day, April 22, 2011. EcoLogic is among the first companies offering affordable, cost-effective alternatives for single-use biodegradable foodservice serveware and containers designed exclusively for restaurant operators, foodservice distributors, and janitorial supply firms. It has generated a significant amount of interest by focusing on three main reasons to go green— less carbon footprint, less cost, and less plastic waste.
FoodserviceNatureWorks LLC is a stand-alone company wholly owned by Cargill. Dedicated to meeting the world’s needs today without compromising the earth’s ability to meet the needs of tomorrow, NatureWorks LLC is the first company to offer a family of commercially available polymers derived from 100 percent annually renewable resources with cost and performance that compete with petroleum-based packaging materials and fibers. The company applies its unique technology to the processing of natural plant sugars to create a proprietary polylactide polymer, which is marketed under the NatureWorks® PLA and Ingeo™ fibers brand names.
The Toledo, Ohio-based manufacturer of biobased foodservice products has partnered with DowCargill’s Natureworks LLC to market its products under the Ingeo™ brand name. The company’s broad and comprehensive line includes high-heat tolerant flatware made entirely from renewable plant starches; certified compostable, single-use hot and cold beverage cups made with Ingeo™ biopolymer; and plates and to-go containers made from 100% natural plant fibers. Future items will include numerous biodegradable containers for pre-packaged fruits, vegetables, and take-away meals.
“Our foodservice customers are demanding reasonably priced sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based, single-use plastic and styrofoam products,” says Lawrence Ohlman III, director of operations at EcoLogic.
EcoLogic Foodservice Solutions was recently named a supplier of preference for government institutions and received accreditation from the USDA’s BioPreferred™ Federal Procurement Program. This follows the February 21, 2011, launch of the United States Department of Agriculture Certified Biobased Label program.
“According to a recent by Taste of America study, 86.6% of end users valued the importance of using biodegradable flatware, cups, and take-out containers in their purchasing decisions. Until now, the cost of switching to many of the green products on the market has been prohibitive, but public demand is driving change. Our company is committed to developing affordable and sustainable foodservice solutions which will enable our customers to offer greener choices with little added cost,” promises Ohlman. The company also understands that durability and functionality serve an important role in purchasing decisions. The firm’s single-use compostable foodservice products are as durable and functional as their conventional plastic counterparts but take less energy to produce and significantly offset carbon usage.
