Sustainable packaging in the tea world is still in its infancy. I see examples of it from various purveyors and companies, but few and far between. If you are a big tea company, you can probably invest in compostable packaging with custom print and other bells and whistles, but if you’re a nano-company like me, running solo and doing all the packaging yourself by hand, your options are limited.
When I started offering tea for purchase back in November, I invested in Kraft Stand-up Pouches. They look natural and loving, and many companies use them these days. They work particularly well preserving the freshness of the tea since they are foil-lined and airtight. You can re-purpose them and reuse them, but ultimately they are not recyclable. I looked at all sorts of options to maintain sustainability, considering both recyclable as well as biodegradable options. Packing tea into a biodegradable cellulose bag doesn’t work very well in terms of minimizing moisture and keeping light out.
Recently, I’ve upgraded from pouches to a fully recyclable paper canister. I have also applied a recycled Kraft paper label with hand-written text for a personal touch and a unique art decal on top for added depth. Overall, the new packaging is sleek, minimalist, and elegant, and creates a slight air of mystery.
Adam – Thank you for caring enough about our precious planet to move into a recyclable paper canister. I know it’s a more costly investment in the short run, but I suspect your customers will respond to these efforts and it will actually add value to your brand. If only the large tea companies would accept responsibility for their products, on an environmental level, as you have done. I have not seen a paper canister but it’s a terrific idea. It looks beautiful and I love the additional recycled label, letting your customers know of your values. I applaud your beautiful canister and meaningful intentions.
Namaste
thank you michelle
I wonder if this is a case of quality vs. sustainability, not that the two are mutually exclusive at all. Seeing as how exposure to air can radically alter some teas, an example that comes to mind is Japanese greens, I wonder if this is sufficient as to prevent the exchange with air outside of the container. Maybe this is a non-issue if the seller (not sure which vendor this is) only carries not top tier teas or black/flavored blends and such.
i’m commenting solely in the retail sphere…
Hi Adam, what’s the name of your company and where did you learn about the new packaging material that you chose? Thanks! Alexandra
Hi Alexandra, my humble efforts go under the name Teaometry. I learned about my packaging through exploring my options here in southern california.
teaometry.com
So often responsible packaging is unappealing visually. You have proven that it is possible to be both. Your packaging shows good aesthetics with design and colours that appeal to both men and women. I like the personal touch with the hand written info. Well done Adam!
Thank you!
Adam Thanks for verbalizing what I have experienced. I like the packaging you presented. You did not state where you purchased the packaging. Where did you purchase it? Again thanks.
Latta@globalorganicteas.com
Hi Adam,
I also looked into cardboard compostable packaging. I found that the cardboard absorbs oils and isn’t air-tight. What did you do to overcome this? Others did foil pouch inside cardboard, but that was double packaging. Is the cardboard coated? I settled on the pouches as the best option for the tea & overall footprint (ship large amounts easily) but would love to hear what you think.
Laura
Laura
Indeed the canister is not air-tight, thus I am resorting to inner pouches. Yet the tea is protected and maintained with as little a throw-away factor as possible.
Best
Adam
Aloha Adam, we are thinking deeply about this same issue at Tealet. How do you feel about tins? They are recycled material and are recyclable, but how do you feel about encouraging your customers to repurpose them?