Recycling in Action: How Sabert is Leading the Way

Our purpose of reinventing food packaging to nourish and protect our world guides everything we do here at Sabert. We strive to design recyclable and circular food packaging solutions that help reduce waste and conserve valuable resources. From plastics and paper to compostable molded fiber packaging, we continue to innovate and collaborate to improve recycling rates and keep materials in use for as long as possible.

Here are a few ways we are leading the way here at Sabert:

Advancing Plastic Recycling & PCR Integration

Plastics play a critical role in food packaging. Its inherent properties - water resistance, leak prevention, and lightweight nature - make it particularly effective for foodservice applications. Significant innovation in plastic packaging has taken shape over recent years, and we are working to make solutions more sustainable and circular. Our recyclable plastic packaging is designed to be processed efficiently, and through our Nuvida recycling facility, we've given over 39,197 metric tons of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic a second life since 2019. By integrating PCR into new packaging, we help reduce reliance on virgin plastic, lowering carbon emissions and energy use.

How you can recycle better:

  • Look for #1 PET and #5 PP plastics, which are widely accepted in curbside recycling programs.
  • Rinse out food residue and allow it to dry before recycling to ensure they're processed. Place directly in a bin; most programs want recyclables loose, not in a bag.
  • Check out how plastic recycling works.

Strengthening Paper Recycling & Sustainable Sourcing

Paper packaging is a highly recyclable and renewable option for food service. At Sabert, we ensure our paper-based packaging is made from responsibly sourced fiber and designed to be easily recycled or composted.

How you can recycle better:

  • Clean and dry paper packaging can be recycled curbside.
  • Support certified sustainable paper products to encourage responsible forestry.
  • Check out how paper is recycled.

Expanding Compostable Molded Fiber Packaging Solutions

PFAS-free compostable molded fiber solutions, designed to break down in home or commercial composting facilities, help enrich soil with valuable nutrients. Made from renewable raw materials, they reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based resources. Read more about the benefits of compostable packaging.

  • Only compost BPI or TUV-certified fiber packaging at home or in commercial composting programs.
  • Clean and dry molded fiber packaging can be recycled curbside in addition to being compostable.
  • Support policies and infrastructure development for expanded composting access in your community.

Beyond Packaging: Advocating for a Stronger Recycling System

Recycling and composting infrastructure is key to creating a true circular economy, and we're actively working to strengthen it. Through partnerships with AMERIPEN, SPC, APR, and FPI, we advocate for policies that spur innovation and boost the adoption of new sustainable food packaging solutions.

Resources to Help You Recycle Better

Want to deepen your understanding of recycling? Here are some valuable resources:

At Sabert, we believe that every package has the potential for a second life—and together, we can make that a reality. Let's close the loop on packaging waste and build a more sustainable future!