As the world embraces eco-friendly practices, industries are seeking biodegradable packaging alternatives. Among the most popular solutions today are bagasse trays, which are made from the fibrous by-product of sugarcane processing. These trays, along with other moulded pulp trays, are quickly replacing plastic and styrofoam in the food service and packaging industries.
This article explores the benefits, production process, and suppliers of sugarcane bagasse trays, along with an overview of the top bagasse tray manufacturers and their role in the global transition to green packaging.
What Are Bagasse Trays?
Sugarcane bagasse is the dry, pulpy residue left after sugarcane stalks are crushed to extract juice. Traditionally treated as waste or burned, bagasse is now being repurposed into eco-friendly food trays, containers, and tableware.
Bagasse trays are:
Compostable and biodegradable
Sturdy and leak-proof
Popular in restaurants, events, and meal prep
Compared to plastic or foam, bagasse trays leave no toxic residue, making them ideal for businesses and consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Why Bagasse Trays Are a Better Alternative
Choosing bagasse trays over conventional food containers provides several compelling benefits:
1. Eco-Friendly and Renewable
Bagasse is a renewable resource, unlike plastic which is petroleum-based. Using bagasse trays helps reduce agricultural waste and cut down on landfill buildup.
2. Compostable and Biodegradable
Bagasse trays biodegrade within weeks in industrial or home composting systems—making them far superior to disposable plastic.
3. Durable and Functional
These trays are resistant to oil and moisture. They can be used in:
Microwaves and ovens
4. Chemical-Free and Non-Toxic
Free from BPA, dyes, and harmful chemicals, sugarcane bagasse trays are safe for food contact and support healthier living.
Use Cases for Moulded Pulp and Bagasse Food Trays
Thanks to their versatility and eco-certifications, bagasse trays are widely used in:
Foodservice industries
Meal prep companies
Outdoor festivals and pop-ups
Common tray formats include:
Clamshell takeout containers
Flat serving trays
The Manufacturing Process of Sugarcane Bagasse Trays
The production process of bagasse trays involves several key steps:
Pulping|Bagasse is mixed with water and ground into a pulp.
Moulding|The wet pulp is placed into heated moulds shaped like trays.
Drying|Trays are dried using heat or air in a controlled environment.
Trimming and Sterilization|Edges are cut, and trays are cleaned or UV-treated for hygiene.
Some bagasse tray manufacturers use automated production lines to ensure consistent quality and speed, making it possible to meet the growing global demand for compostable packaging.
Top Bagasse Tray Manufacturers in 2025
There are numerous bagasse tray manufacturers around the world, especially in regions with large sugarcane industries like India, China, Brazil, and Thailand.
Top manufacturers often offer:
Private labeling and OEM services
Certifications like BPI, FDA, and OK Compost
Competitive pricing
Leading names in the industry include:
Huhtamaki (Global)
Greenweimo (China)
Yash Pakka (India)
Eco Products (USA)
Earthens (Thailand)
If you're sourcing bagasse trays wholesale, it’s important to ask for material testing reports, production timelines, and eco-certifications to ensure compliance and quality.
Difference Between Bagasse and Moulded Pulp Trays
Though often used interchangeably, moulded pulp trays can be made from various plant fibers, including:
Sugarcane bagasse
Moulded pulp trays are especially popular in non-food packaging, like:
Cosmetics packaging
Key differences:
Bagasse trays are generally food-safe and used in the food industry
Moulded pulp trays may be thicker and more rigid, used for protective purposes
Both are biodegradable, compostable, and eco-friendly
Selecting the Best Moulded Pulp Tray for Your Needs
Before placing a large order, consider the following:
1. Tray Size and Compartments
Match tray size to your food portions or product dimensions.
2. Heat Resistance and Liquid Barrier
Check if the tray can withstand heat, hold liquids, and maintain shape.
3. Certifications
Look for BPI, OK Compost, FSC, ISO, or FDA compliance if selling in regulated markets.
4. Customization
Choose a bagasse tray manufacturer that offers:
Special colors or designs
5. Cost and Logistics
Compare MOQ, shipping costs, delivery timelines, and storage space needed.
Eco Benefits of Using Sugarcane-Based Trays
Plastic trays may take up to 500 years to decompose. In contrast:
Bagasse trays break down in 60–90 days
They emit no microplastics or toxins
Require less energy to produce than petroleum-based plastic
Bagasse packaging helps:
Reduce CO₂ emissions
Support circular economies
Minimize landfill waste
Provide a market for agricultural by-products
With government bans on single-use plastics rising, switching to sugarcane bagasse trays isn’t just ethical—it’s a smart business move.
Conclusion: Bagasse Trays Are the Future of Sustainable Packaging
In 2025 and beyond, bagasse trays are helping reshape the packaging landscape with bagasse tray manufacturers clean, green, and functional alternatives to harmful plastics. Whether you’re a:
Restaurant owner looking to reduce plastic use
Retail brand in need of eco-friendly packaging
Event planner seeking compostable food trays
Manufacturer searching for bulk sugarcane tray suppliers
…there’s never been a better time to switch to sugarcane bagasse trays or explore moulded pulp packaging.
With the right bagasse tray manufacturer, your business can enjoy:
Cost-effective green solutions
Consumer loyalty for sustainability
Regulatory compliance and environmental impact reduction
Start packaging with purpose. Choose bagasse. Choose a better future.