Carapac crustacean-based packaging

Carapac is a sustainable, durable, home compostable plastic packaging alternative made from crustacean shell waste.

Focusing on soft plastic applications — such as fresh food punnets, packaging pouches, cling film, cutlery bags, bin liners and poly bags — Carapac products have a quick breakdown timeline and are an abundant and nutrient-rich waste source.

The ‘negative waste’ packaging solution upcycles a waste source into packaging that is then repurposed into a slow-release nitrogen fertiliser after its product life cycle. The crustacean shell waste is taken from frozen food packaging plants and used to create environmentally friendly packaging.

Crustacean shells embed anti-fungal properties that, when acting as packaging, prevent mould or fungi from growing on products. Product shelf life can increase by up to 14 days depending on the product, having the potential to alleviate personal and commercial food waste.

The material is safe to use for those with a shellfish allergy as the protein component that causes the reaction is removed.

At the end of its packaging life cycle, Carapac products can be planted directly into gardens or pot plants, acting as a slow-release nitrogen fertiliser. Alternatively, they can be placed in the green bin.

If any Carapac material ends up in the ocean, it will biodegrade within minutes. As it is made from a crustacean base and other natural additives, it does not harm animals should they ingest the material.