Bamboo packaging that is resistant to water and grease

The biodegradable packaging is flexible, strong, and printable

Spotted: Although bamboo is in many ways a wonder plant, capable of growing up to three feet a day and producing 35 per cent more oxygen than trees of a similar size, greenwashing remains a threat to the industry, particularly as some products that are labeled as bamboo are in fact bamboo plastic composite and therefore not biodegradable. 

Making clear its sustainability credentials, Bambrew, one of the winners of Zomato’s 2024 Packathon Challenge, has created a multi-purpose sustainable packaging solution that works for textiles as well as foods. Made from a fully biodegradable mix of bamboo, sugarcane, and seaweed, Bambrew’s packaging is grease- and water-resistant, heat-sealable, compostable, and includes a printable surface.  

The material is strong, yet flexible, and can be see-through or opaque. For e-commerce uses, the packaging is more rigid and looks like brown paper. For foods, whether those with a long shelf life or hot takeaways, the grease-proof, water-proof aspect of the packaging makes it an ideal replacement for single-use, non-recyclable plastics. The printable surface allows brands the flexibility to advertise and label their goods as needed.  

Bambrew’s packaging is handmade in India, and the company works with communities to build and strengthen local economies by supporting sustainable bamboo production and manufacturing. In one year, the company’s products helped reduce carbon emissions from plastic packaging production and use by 125,000 tonnes.  

Written By: Keely Khoury