Flexible packaging
Compostable and Recyclable Pouches
Compostable and recyclable pouches replace mixed plastic and foil laminates with films that can be composted or recycled at the end of life. Compostable pouches use plant-based films, often with kraft paper; recyclable pouches use a single plastic family, such as all-polyethylene. Cubit prints both as stand-up and flat pouches.
Also called: eco-friendly pouches, compostable stand-up pouches, recyclable stand-up pouches, mono-material pouches, sustainable pouches, plant-based pouches, recyclable PE pouches.
- Compostable films and kraft laminations
- Mono-material recyclable PE structures
- Zippers, windows and tear notches
- Stand-up and flat pouch styles
Illustration of the format
Compostable or recyclable: which fits?
Compostable pouches suit brands whose customers can compost, and products such as dry snacks, tea, granola and coffee with moderate shelf-life needs. Recyclable mono-material pouches keep a higher barrier and fit where store drop-off or curbside programs accept flexible plastics. The right choice depends on your product, shelf life and where you sell.
Structures we print
Common sustainable structures include:
- Kraft paper laminated to a compostable inner film
- Clear compostable films for windows and see-through pouches
- All-polyethylene (mono-PE) laminates designed for recycling
- Recyclable polypropylene structures
Barrier and shelf life
Sustainable films do not always match the barrier of foil laminates, so the product matters. Tell us what you pack, how long it must last and how it is stored, and we recommend the structure that protects it best. Claims printed on the pouch, such as "compostable" or "recyclable", should match the film and the certifications your market requires; we confirm the structure with you before printing.
Wholesale and bulk compostable and recyclable pouches
Brands switching to sustainable packaging usually move a whole line at once, so eco pouches are typically bought in bulk across several SKUs. Larger runs bring the price per pouch closer to conventional laminates.
You can ask for the same pouch quoted in a conventional film and a compostable or recyclable film side by side, at each run size you list.
Questions about compostable and recyclable pouches
What is the difference between compostable and recyclable pouches?
Compostable pouches break down in composting conditions; recyclable pouches are made from one plastic family so they can be recycled where flexible plastics are collected.
Are compostable pouches as good a barrier as foil?
Usually less, so they suit products with moderate shelf-life needs. Tell us your product and shelf life and we recommend a structure.
Can compostable pouches have a zipper and window?
Yes. Zippers, clear windows and tear notches are available on sustainable pouches, using compatible materials where possible.
What is a mono-material pouch?
A pouch made entirely from one plastic family, such as polyethylene, so it can go into recycling streams that accept that plastic.
Do you sell eco-friendly pouches wholesale?
Yes. We make compostable and recyclable pouches to order and quote them factory-direct for bulk runs.
What do you need to quote eco pouches?
Product, fill weight or size, compostable or recyclable preference, closures and window, quantity per design and your artwork.