Introduction
Today’s pet owners aren’t just loyal to their pets, they’re loyal to their values too. Sustainability is a growing concern, not only in our own food and household choices, but in how we care for our animals. Packaging waste is under the spotlight, and brands that offer eco-friendly packaging are increasingly being rewarded with customer loyalty.
Sustainable pet care pouches are one of the clearest examples of this shift. Flexible, lightweight, and lower impact to transport than traditional tubs or trays, pouches tick a number of boxes for brands and buyers alike. But not all pouch materials are created equal – and when it comes to pet care, size and function matter too.
Key takeaways:
- Eco-conscious pet owners are increasingly basing buying decisions on packaging sustainability
- Pouches offer excellent format flexibility, especially for treats, snacks and supplements
- CompostaPouch and EcoLux provide strong options for compostable and recyclable materials respectively
- Transparent labelling, resealable features, and convenience matter just as much as the material
Why Sustainable Packaging Matters to Pet Owners
There’s been a major shift in consumer priorities across all product categories, and pet care is no different. Eco-conscious buyers are paying attention to what goes into the packaging, not just what’s inside.
For many, this means:
- Avoiding waste
- Looking for home-compostable solutions
- Prioritising recyclable formats
- Seeking out brands that match their sustainability values
It’s no longer enough to have a healthy, wholesome product. If it’s wrapped in single-use plastic that’s destined for landfill, many customers will walk away.
Trends in Sustainable Pet Care Pouches
The market for eco-friendly pet packaging is evolving fast. Key trends include:
- Recyclable pouches, such as those made from EcoLux, a premium-looking material that is storefront recyclable
- Compostable pouches, like CompostaPouch, a fully home-compostable option.
- Smaller, functional formats suited to treats, supplements and portion control
- Resealable designs that keep food fresher and reduce waste
Importantly, most sustainable pouches are currently available in sizes up to 1kg. That makes them ideal for treats, snacks, and dietary supplements – but not yet for 2kg+ dry pet food bags. Brands should think carefully about how best to introduce sustainable formats without compromising practicality.
Pouch Types by Pet Product
Dog Food and Treats
- Dry food: Most dry dog foods come in 2kg+ formats, which currently exceed the size capabilities of both EcoLux and CompostaPouch. For these larger volumes, alternative solutions will be required.
- Treats and supplements: This is where sustainable pouches shine.
- EcoLux is ideal for recyclable treat or supplement pouches up to 1kg.
- CompostaPouch is suited to plastic-free, home-compostable formats up to 500g – perfect for smaller runs of premium dog treats or chews.
Cat Food and Snacks
- Wet food: Single-serve recyclable pouches are already common in the cat food space. Brands looking to upgrade sustainability can explore mono-material options to improve recyclability.
- Treats and snacks: Both EcoLux and CompostaPouch offer functional, sustainable formats here – resealable, lightweight, and easy to store.
Small Animal, Bird and Fish Products
- Seeds, pellets, and bedding: Smaller format packaging (under 1kg) is often sufficient for small animals and birds, making these product categories a good fit for recyclable or compostable pouch solutions.
Benefits of Switching to Sustainable Pouches
Switching to greener packaging more than a nice gesture – it’s a smart business move. Benefits include:
- Better brand perception among eco-conscious buyers
- Reduced environmental impact from shipping and disposal
- Fresher product experience, thanks to barrier layers and resealable features
- Potential to command higher margins for premium, sustainable options
What Pet Owners Want from Packaging
Today’s buyers are savvy. Here’s what they expect:
- Clear labelling: Is it recyclable? Home compostable? Biodegradable? Say so.
- Convenience: Resealable closures, easy-open tops, and compact storage.
- Credibility: Packaging that matches the sustainability claims of the brand.
How to Implement Sustainable Packaging for Pet Products
If you’re ready to make the switch, here’s how to start:
- Choose the right material: EcoLux for a recyclable premium look, or CompostaPouch for a plastic-free, home-compostable format.
- Consider your product size: If you sell 2kg+ food bags, consider switching your treat or supplement lines first.
- Work with the right supplier: Partner with a packaging supplier that understands both the technical requirements and sustainability expectations of the pet care industry.
The Future of Sustainable Pet Packaging
Innovation continues to push forward. Expect to see:
- Larger format recyclable and compostable options
- Greater uptake of mono-material solutions for easier recycling
- More brands aligning their packaging with their environmental promises
- Regulatory shifts forcing a move away from multi-layer plastics
Sustainable packaging is quickly becoming a necessity.
Conclusion
Pet owners want more from their packaging. They want reassurance that they’re buying from a brand that shares their values, without compromising on quality or convenience. Sustainable pouches provide that opportunity, particularly for treats, snacks and supplements where the format fits the material capabilities.
EcoLux and CompostaPouch offer strong foundations for any brand looking to step up their sustainability game. The brands that make the move now won’t just do right by the planet – they’ll win loyal customers (and their pets) in the process.
FAQs
Can pet food be packaged in recyclable pouches?
Yes, but there are size limitations. Recyclable options like EcoLux are currently best suited to formats up to 1kg, making them more practical for treats or supplements than for bulk pet food bags.
Are compostable pouches safe for pet food?
Yes. CompostaPouch is food-safe and includes a fully compostable resealable zipper. It’s a strong choice for premium pet treats or snacks.
What does “storefront recyclable” mean?
Storefront recyclable pouches (like EcoLux) can be recycled at collection points found in many major supermarkets across the UK. These are not kerbside recyclable yet, but they still divert material from landfill.
Will switching to eco-friendly packaging increase costs?
There may be a slight increase in material costs, but it can be offset by reduced shipping weight, smaller packaging formats, and the ability to command a premium from eco-conscious buyers.
What is the MOQ for sustainable pet care pouches?
At Readability, our minimum order quantity is 2,500 pouches per size, which can be split into 500 per design when using the same material and finish.
About the Author: Cameron Fisher
Cameron is our resident marketing and content expert, skills which he applies to his ever-growing knowledge of custom packaging and labels, helping push the Readability brand out to a growing audience.