The Rise of Sustainable Snack Packaging

Sustainable Snack Packaging
Published by Cameron Fisher on 14th May 2025 | Pouches, Sustainable Packaging

As the world wakes up to the environmental cost of convenience, snack brands are rethinking the way their products are packed. Sustainable snack packaging has moved from a niche interest to a mainstream expectation. With eco-conscious consumers and tightening regulations reshaping the landscape, this shift is only set to accelerate.

Key Takeaways

  • Younger consumers and global movements are fuelling demand for greener packaging.
  • Retailers are pressuring brands to adopt sustainable solutions.
  • Recyclable options like EcoLux Pouches and compostable alternatives like CompostaPouch are leading the charge.
  • Brands that act now are gaining competitive advantage, both in reputation and sales.

Why Sustainable Snack Packaging is on the Rise

Sustainability is no longer optional. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are actively choosing brands that reflect their environmental values. Regulations are also playing a role, with governments introducing bans on single-use plastics and encouraging recyclable or compostable materials.

Retailers, especially large supermarkets, are driving much of the momentum too. Many now favour brands that can demonstrate environmental responsibility through their packaging.

Current Trends in Sustainable Snack Packaging

Snack brands are experimenting with a range of new formats, including:

  • Compostable Packaging: Materials like CompostaPouch are gaining traction thanks to their ability to fully break down under composting conditions.
  • Recyclable Packaging: Storefront-recyclable options such as EcoLux are helping reduce plastic waste without compromising product protection.
  • Reusable and Refillable Models: Though still in their infancy in the snack world, refill stations and reusable tubs are starting to appear.
  • Mono-material Plastics: Easier to recycle and gaining favour with facilities and consumers alike.

Notable brands embracing these trends have not only reduced their carbon footprints but also won praise from eco-conscious consumers, driving loyalty and growth.

Key Drivers of Consumer Demand

Consumers want their values reflected in their purchases. Social media has become a key channel for awareness, spreading messages about sustainability and zero-waste lifestyles.

In the UK, movements like The Big Plastic Count have helped raise awareness of just how much single-use packaging households generate. Campaigns like these, backed by NGOs and featured in mainstream media, have fuelled a shift in consumer expectations – with packaging now seen as a key marker of a brand’s environmental responsibility.

Popular Sustainable Snack Packaging Options

Here are three common choices snack brands are turning to:

Recyclable Snack Packaging

  • Benefits: Easy for consumers to recycle, cuts down on landfill waste.
  • Examples: EcoLux pouches, recyclable flow wraps, mono-material films.

Compostable Snack Packaging

  • Benefits: Breaks down naturally, ideal for organic brands or those aligning with zero-waste goals.
  • Examples: CompostaPouch, cellulose wrappers, PLA-based bags.

Biodegradable and Bio-based Packaging

  • Benefits: Made from renewable materials like starch or plant fibres.
  • Examples: Starch-based trays, bio-based films, paper-based laminates.

Challenges and Considerations for Snack Brands

Sustainable packaging isn’t always straightforward. Costs can be higher, and maintaining shelf-life and barrier protection requires careful material selection. Infrastructure is another issue. If a consumer can’t easily compost or recycle the packaging, even the best materials can end up in landfill.

Brands must weigh these trade-offs carefully, ideally working with specialist suppliers who understand the practicalities.

Success Stories

A standout example is Spudos, a crisp brand that’s taken a two-pronged approach to sustainability. They use refillable tubs for their crisps and a compostable film for their “spud dust” seasoning sachets – supplied by us.

This packaging strategy not only aligns perfectly with their mission to reduce waste, but also caught the eye of investors. Spudos went on to secure a £50,000 investment on BBC’s Dragon’s Den, a move that helped them scale and bring their eco-friendly snacking concept to a wider audience.

Their story highlights how the right packaging choices can attract both customers and capital – and serve as a key part of a brand’s growth journey.

The Future of Sustainable Snack Packaging

We’re seeing advances in flexible films that offer both high performance and compostability. Recycling standards are also improving, with better infrastructure and clearer labelling. Looking ahead, the brands that succeed will be those that adapt quickly, tell their sustainability story well, and back it up with genuinely eco-friendly packaging.

Tips for Snack Brands Making the Switch

  • Choose the Right Option: Understand whether recyclable, compostable or bio-based is the best fit for your product and your consumer (check out our guide to sustainable packaging).
  • Educate Your Audience: Make recycling or composting easy and obvious with clear on-pack instructions.
  • Work with the Right Partner: Suppliers like those offering EcoLux and CompostaPouch can guide you through the process with materials that are proven and compliant.

Conclusion

Sustainable snack packaging is more than a trend. It’s fast becoming an industry standard. The good news? Brands that make the switch early are likely to reap the rewards, from increased customer loyalty to long-term profitability.

Whether you’re launching a new snack line or updating your packaging to meet rising expectations, now’s the time to go sustainable. The future of snacks is green – and it’s looking bright.

FAQs

Is sustainable packaging more expensive than regular packaging?

In some cases, yes. However, many brands find the investment worthwhile, as it can lead to increased customer loyalty, stronger retail interest, and alignment with regulatory requirements.

What’s the difference between compostable and biodegradable snack packaging?

Compostable packaging breaks down under specific composting conditions, usually within a set timeframe, and leaves behind no harmful residue. Biodegradable packaging also breaks down naturally but may take longer and isn’t always suitable for home composting. For example, CompostaPouch is certified home compostable and ideal for brands needing a clear eco claim.

Can sustainable packaging protect my product as well as plastic?

Yes, when chosen correctly. High-quality materials like EcoLux (recyclable) and CompostaPouch (compostable) are designed to maintain shelf-life and protect snacks from moisture, oxygen, and odours. It’s important to match the barrier properties to your product type.

Do consumers actually care about sustainable snack packaging?

Absolutely. Research consistently shows that consumers, especially younger ones, prefer to buy from brands that reflect their values. Packaging is one of the clearest signals of a brand’s environmental stance. Movements like The Big Plastic Count in the UK have only increased awareness and expectations.

What if there’s no composting or recycling infrastructure near my customers?

That’s a valid concern. Recyclable options like EcoLux are designed to be storefront recyclable, making them easier to dispose of responsibly. It’s also worth adding clear disposal guidance on the pack to help consumers do the right thing.

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.

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