Sandpoint bread company converts to alternative packaging

As a way to fight what they see as a global plastic crisis, an Idaho-based bread company has converted its packaging to a new plastic alternative.

Sandpoint-based Happy Campers recently partnered with Verde Bioresins, a maker of biodegradable and recyclable packaging using its PolyEarthylene resin.

Verde Bioresins, based in Fullerton, California, specializes in what it calls “biobased polymers” that are created using plant-based polymers and feedstocks. According to the company, the eco-friendly polymers significantly reduce the impact to the environment compared to that of traditional plastic packaging.

“Unlike conventional plastic bags, Happy Campers’ new packaging allows naturally occurring landfill microbes to attach and break down the material, converting it into organic matter,” a release stated.

“As a company that values health and sustainability, we are thrilled to introduce packaging that not only protects our delicious gluten-free products but also helps address the global plastic crisis,” said Lacy Gillham co-founder of Happy Campers. “This is just one step in our journey to becoming a more sustainable business.”

Gillham co-founded the business with Jan Taborsky in 2010 to produce gluten-free, USDA Organic and allergen-friendly baked goods. Its products are distributed throughout stores nationwide and can be found at natural food retailers such as Whole Foods Market.

“At Verde Bioresins, we are dedicated to providing sustainable solutions that meet the real-world needs of businesses and consumers alike,” said Brian Gordon, president of Verde Bioresins. “We are thrilled to partner with Happy Campers to deliver packaging that not only supports their commitment to sustainability but also provides a tangible impact on reducing plastic waste.”

Gordon’s company pointed out four key features of the new packaging being utilized by Happy Campers:

• Biodegradability: Designed to degrade in landfill conditions, minimizing long-term waste.
• Recyclability: Compatible with existing plastic recycling streams under LDPE code #4.
• Non-toxic composition: California Prop 65 compliant (PFAS, BPA, Heavy Metals and Phthalate Free)
• FDA compliance: Meets food safety and regulatory standards according FDA Title 21.

Verde pointed out that Happy Campers opted to go with the alternative packaging rather than compostable packaging since compostable packaging needs to be sent to industrial composting facilities.

“Verde’s landfill biodegradable PolyEarthylene resins are specifically designed to break down in landfill conditions, offering a more practical and effective solution to reducing plastic pollution,” the company stated. “Unlike compostable alternatives, PolyEarthylene offers the additional benefit of being recyclable with traditional plastic streams. By selecting Verde’s biobased, biodegradable and recyclable polymers, Happy Campers is able to offer a more environmentally friendly food packaging solution.”