GreenScreen Certified is an independent, non-profit assessment system developed by Clean Production Action and the Center for Environmental Health to promote the safer use of chemicals across several industries, including foodservice packaging.
The Vanguard foodservice range employs proprietary chemistry to achieve grease resistance without the use of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl (PFAS), which do not break down over time. Findings suggest that some PFAS substances used in textile treatment can accumulate in the bodies of animals, including humans, and are already regulated in the EU, which is also considering a blanket ban. The GreenScreen certification system uses a Restricted Substance List, which includes PFAS, to check the chemical safety of products.
GreenScreen also searches for the presence of ‘chemicals of high concern’ or known regrettable substances that occur when one ingredient is removed but replaced with another problematic element. According to Eco-Products, the Vanguard range has passed Green screen tests and does not contain chemicals from either of these categories; and is BPI certified as compostable, microwave-friendly, cut-resistant, and effective in both hot and cold applications.
Eco-Products claims that it is the first foodservice ware product line to earn GreenScreen Certification.
Ian Jacobson, president of Eco-Products, comments: “Finding an alternative formula to replace PFAS was our top priority. But we also wanted to ensure our products did not contain other chemicals of high concern or known regrettable substitutes. “We are incredibly proud to be the first manufacturer to offer an innovative foodservice product with a preferable chemistry.”
Sue Chiang, food program director at CEH, adds: “This new safety standard will empower consumers to make healthier decisions for themselves and their families.”
The debate over the environmental benefits of single-use foodservice ware, even if plant- or paper-based, continues. Nonetheless, many innovations have recently emerged in this segment, including Huhtamaki’s new 100% wood fibre Sundae cup for McDonald’s and Seal Packaging’s reportedly home compostable takeaway food packaging to be used in a sandwich bar in London.
