Denver, CO - Eco-Products, a leading provider of sustainable foodservice packaging, has achieved a significant milestone with its Vanguard Clamshell, becoming the first molded fiber item made without the addition of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) to receive approval from the Compost Manufacturing Alliance (CMA).
The Vanguard line, which comprises compostable plates and containers made from molded fiber, has gained recognition for its innovative approach to achieving grease resistance without the use of PFAS. PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are a class of materials that pose environmental and health risks.
CMA, an organization that conducts field disintegration testing for compost facilities, rigorously assesses products to ensure their effective breakdown during the composting process. In an ongoing evaluation of various molded fiber products, the Vanguard 9-inch, three-compartment clamshell has successfully met the CMA's windrow technology approval (CMA-W) requirements. Further testing of additional Vanguard items is currently underway, with results expected later this year.
Janet L. Thoman, Compliance Director for the Compost Manufacturing Alliance, praised Eco-Products' efforts, stating, "Eco Products' certification provides the CMA network of windrow processors with products that not only meet lab and field disintegration standards but also fill a critical void in the supply chain for PFAS-compliant fiber materials. We applaud Eco-Products' diligent efforts to create products that work for consumers and composters."
Crafted from reclaimed and renewable molded fiber, the Vanguard line encompasses a wide range of products, including plates, bowls, trays, containers, and portion cups. These items are designed to be microwave-friendly, cut-resistant, and suitable for take-out and delivery services.
The Vanguard line has already garnered several significant distinctions and approvals. In January 2020, it became the first line of molded fiber products in the industry to achieve certification from the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) under new rules that mandate PFAS-free products with less than 100 parts per million of total organic fluorine. The Vanguard line's compliance with these standards earned it the top spot for Innovation in Manufacturing in the bi-annual Foodservice Packaging awards competition.
Moreover, in 2021, Vanguard received the GreenScreen™ Silver designation, making Eco-Products the first manufacturer to earn this recognition for foodservice packaging. Building on this success, Eco-Products has expanded the Vanguard line to include over 40 unique shapes and sizes of products, establishing itself as the leading provider of PFAS-free molded fiber items. In addition to plates, cups, utensils, straws, trays, and containers, Eco-Products offers a wide range of eco-friendly options made from renewable and post-consumer recycled resources.
With the approval of the Vanguard Clamshell by the Compost Manufacturing Alliance, Eco-Products continues to set new benchmarks for sustainable and environmentally conscious foodservice packaging. By prioritizing both consumer needs and composting requirements, the company remains committed to delivering high-quality, PFAS-free alternatives to the market.
