Ask the Tech
Picnic & Party The Green Way
February 23, 2010
Portland is a city of many festivals. One my favorites is the North American Organic Brewers Festival
http://www.naobf.org/index.htm It was there that I was introduced to green food service products. The beer tasting cups were made from corn starch. They looked and felt exactly like plastic but were compostable. The cups were sturdy and at no time did I feel in danger of having it dissolve. We did discover the one accidentally left on the dashboard in the intense direct sunlight deformed. They most certainly would not last long in a landfill!
That was several years ago and now there are even more options. Products such as Tater Ware provide plates, cups, knives, spoons, forks and takeaway containers made from potato starch. These products are suitable for both hot & cold foods, they are very strong and they are biodegradable.
Tableware made from 100% compostable sugar cane fiber is another green choice. Sugar cane is rapidly renewable and breaks down in 30 -90 days in commercial composting facilities. It is also microwave and freezer safe.
If you are planning a neighborhood block party, company picnic or family reunion keep it green. We can help.