Cornstarch Packaging
What Is Cornstarch Packaging?
Cornstarch packaging is a bioplastic made from corn or maize plant sugars, offering a compostable, renewable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. It’s most often used for items like mailers, food containers, or product wraps; and looks and feels a lot like traditional plastic, without the environmental toll.
How Is It Made?
Corn starch (polylactic acid, or PLA) is extracted from corn and processed into a plastic-like material.
The bioplastic can then be molded or pressed into sheets, bags, films, or containers.
It’s compostable under industrial conditions and breaks down much faster than synthetic plastics.
The process uses less fossil fuel, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and comes from a renewable resource.
Why Does It Matter?
Cornstarch packaging helps reduce plastic pollution, but it goes further, it can lower carbon emissions, break down without toxic residue, and be produced from agricultural surplus, supporting a more circular economy. In the right conditions, it can decompose within months, returning nutrients to the soil rather than choking ecosystems.
It’s a great step for brands looking to reduce waste and take a cleaner, smarter approach to their packaging.
Best Use Case:
Compostable mailers, takeaway containers, bags, and product wraps—especially for food or light goods.
Eco-Benefits:
Breaks down in months under industrial composting
Made from renewable, plant-based resources
Reduces dependence on fossil fuels
Leaves no microplastics or toxic residue
Printing Capabilities:
Great—can be digitally or flexo-graphically printed for high-quality branding.