SunChips to Launch 100 Percent Compostable Packaging

TriplePundit reports that Frito-Lay's new SunChips bag is 90 percent plant-based and 100 percent compostable. The environmentally friendly packaging will be introduced next month in Canada and on Earth Day in the US. We first told you about plans to implement the new bag in June 2009.

The new material is made out of PLA, polylactic acid, a polymer derived from lactic acid. Lactic acid is produced by fermented dextrose, and dextrose is made from starch. Trademarked as Ingeo by its producer NatureWorks LLC, it is the world's first packaging material made out of 100 percent renewable sources.

Although PLA will be used in the entire package come April, the transition from petroleum-based materials has already been implemented in stages. This is largely due to the fact there was not enough production available to keep up with SunChips' packaging needs. Once the entire unit is converted, the material will not be as soft at room temperature, meaning the bag will sound differently when opened. Frito Lay Canada has already jumped on the green marketing bandwagon, embracing this change as a fun novelty with its New Sound of Green campaign.

PLA decomposes best in a proper composting environment, which is a hot, active composting receptacle. Although it will decompose in a landfill, it will take longer than the 12–16 weeks through composting. The packaging has been certified by the only internationally recognized labeling program, Biodegradable Products Institute.

PLA's utmost potential might not be reached just yet because it is necessary to compost for the best results. However, the material is a huge advancement in environmentally sustainable practices and will only help to launch further initiatives in waste management.

Photo by Watt Dabney via Flickr.