This is a very common question from private customers, but often from coffee shop and drink catering businesses too.

We stock a huge range of different coffee cups types, these then come in a wide range of sizes. We realise there can be much to choose from for the casual customer, so we’ve put together a guide to help you make the best choice for custom printed paper cups.

The most common sizes are 8oz and 12oz, most customers will end up purchasing one of these sizes as they represent a small or regular serving of coffee. We have other more specialised sizes too though which might also be suitable.

4oz paper cups: these are sometimes mistaken for “the smallest size takeaway coffee cup”, purchased in error when an 8oz cup was actually required. A 4oz cup is an espresso shot only; you’d never serve a tea or regular coffee in this size. It’s also extremely popular with companies serving samples of their products.

6oz paper cups: generally these are purchased for serving the increasingly popular “flat white”. Some more specialised artisan coffee houses have also taken to using this size in place of the 8oz cup too.

8oz paper cups: the go-to size for a lot of customers, it’s generally classed as either a “small” or a “regular” in the coffee to go world.

10oz paper cups: designed specifically to fit under the nozzle of automatic coffee machines, these hold 10oz comfortably with the max capacity being a shade under 12oz. This is a common size of a medium / regular takeaway coffee.

12oz take away cups: normally considered a medium size and traditionally the most popular. It’s a versatile size that can be used for lots of different beverages, to reduce the number of cup sizes stocked some coffee chains will serve small / regular and medium servings in this size of cup.

16oz paper cups: the largest mainstream cup size you’ll encounter, it has the same diameter as a 12oz cup, it’s just quite a bit taller. Generally a coffee chain will use fewer of these than the more common 8 or 12oz sizes.

With the rapid development of our society, custom printed paper cups & paper bowl wholesale are becoming increasingly popular. Coffee and milk tea have a good market, disposable paper cups and lids have made great contributions for it. Most of the customers like to use PLA paper cups, because PLA paper is waterproof, and it can maintain cups dry, safe and harmless. The advantages of PLA paper cups will be shown in the following.

1. Customized PLA  biodegradable paper cups have water resistance, good air permeability. This cup has high surface strength and interlaminar strength, because the penetration rate is higher than other materials. PLA paper cups are antibacterial, and can absorb ammonia.

2. This eco friendly paper cups wholesale belongs to food paper, and it has advantages of mildew proof, water absorption and water resistance. The wrapping film is made through a special process with protein as coating on the paper, which can withstand a certain temperature, prevent erosion, be convenient for food processing, and do no pollution to the environment.

3. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a new bio-based and renewable biodegradable material, which is made from the starch extracted from renewable plant resources (such as corn, cassava, etc.). The starch is saccharized to get glucose, which is then fermented through a certain kind of bacteria to produce high purity lactic acid, and then the lactic acid is synthesized to get polylactic acid. PLA disposable paper cup has good biodegradability and can be completely degraded to carbon dioxide and water by microorganisms in nature under specific conditions, causing no pollution to the environment.

PLA coated paper cups use natural renewable plant resources as raw materials, which reduces the dependence on the traditional oil resources and accords with the requirement of sustainable development of the international society. It has both the advantages of synthetic fiber and natural fiber, and features in completely natural circulation and biological decomposition. Compared with conventional fiber, corn fiber has many unique properties, making it preferred and valued by customers.

Consumers today are constantly on the move, and carry-out, delivery and third party delivery services have become the norm for many restaurants and other foodservice establishments. As a result, disposable take-out packaging has become an essential component of operation.

There’s a wide variety of take out containers available, but with increasing bans and consumer demand for sustainable packaging you may be interested in a more eco friendly take out containers---custom printed paper cups&paper bowls option for your business. Despite changing legislation and consumer demand, budget constraints are always a concern.

Finding the right balance of price and sustainability can be challenging, but in this article we’ll go over the best sustainable, low-cost options to consider.

Keep in mind that if you are making the switch from a low-cost disposable takeout container like polystyrene or foam, any alternative is likely going to cost you more. But, understanding the types of low-cost sustainable to-go options will ensure you make the best choice for your business.

When trying to determine the best, low cost sustainable packaging material, the first consideration should revolve around how your customers will be disposing of it. Thus, it is important to understand the disposal options in your area which include recycling, composting, or trash disposal.

In most cases, customers will be taking the to-go packaging out of your facility. If your customers can not compost or recycle the container, you may not be using a sustainable option at all. For example, if you’re providing your customers with biodegradable take out containers but there is no compost facility nearby (and they are just throwing it away in the trash bin), it is no longer a sustainable option.

Types of Eco-Friendly To-Go Containers

With regard to sustainable packaging, you will likely want to choose to-go foodservice packaging that is recyclable or compostable.

Recyclable to-go containers are products that can be reclaimed or reprocessed into new materials. Recyclable takeout containers are commonly made from plastic.

It is important to keep in mind that not all plastics are recyclable. For example, plastic number 6, more commonly known as polystyrene is not accepted for recycling. Plastics that are not recyclable will typically end up in landfills.

Pro Tip: The recycling code is typically found on the bottom of containers. It is a number surrounded by 3 arrows chasing each other in a triangle.

Initially when biodegradable paper cups were first introduced into the UK they arrived in the most common variety, the customized PLA sugarcane paper  cup. This was the same as the regular recyclable cup but with a PLA lining instead of a PE (plastic) lining.

As biodegradability has become an exponentially important aspect of disposables, demand has increased sharply. As such the range of cup types available for customers who require a biodegradable paper cup is greater than ever.

We stock the following types of biodegradable cups:

*Single wall  PLA sugarcane paper cups

*Double wall  PLA sugarcane paper cups

*Insulated ripple wall PLA sugarcane paper cups

*Bamboo compostable paper cups

*Triple layer “Ultimate” bamboo compostable paper cups.

Our range now covers all the common cup types available, meaning there’s a biodegradable alternative to any of our regular ranges of disposable cups. The different levels of insulation work the exact same way as our non-biodegradable cups:

*Single wall (including bamboo): The most popular variety, lowest cost per unit but only basic heat insulation.

*Double Wall: An extra layer of insulation, much better heat retention and more comfortable to hold. Smooth outer wall.

*Insulated Ripple: The best level of heat insulation has a tactile “rippled” outer which further improves insulation.

*Triple Layer “ultimate” bamboo: The same high level of insulation as the ripple cups, but with a smooth outer wall.Please feel free to get in touch with our friendly sales team with any queries you may have about our range of biodegradable paper cups.

At present, plastic products are banned and restricted worldwide with the aim of minimizing the use of non-biodegradable plastics products and reducing the pollution damage that plastics cause to the environment and organisms of the planet, including the oceans and land. In order to replace the plastic PE used in the film process, our products use food grade plastic-free coating. Whether it is a plastic free paper cup, plastic free paper lid or plastic free paper bowl, can be applied with plastic-free coating liquid after the formation of a plastic coating instead of the film. No plastic coating, no plastic, no fluorine, with excellent waterproof, oil resistance, to meet the heat seal, ultrasonic heat seal and glue bonding. And 100% recyclable, 100% re-pulpable, in line with the FDA, EC, GB9685-2016 and other food contact regulations.

About the specific application of plastic free coating liquid. Main applications: 1, customized pla paper lid, custom printed paper bowls wholesale, 100% pla coated paper products; 2, a variety of food-grade paper bags (hamburger bags, oil bar bags, chestnut bags, bread bags, etc. and products for food which is waterproof and oil-proof when used for food. 3, disposable lunch boxes, disposable table paper, as well as a variety of products for food which are waterproof and oil-proof; 4, instead of a variety of applications of the film products.

Are you looking to order the perfect coffee cup but can’t choose between a single wall cup or double wall cup? Here are all the facts you need.

Single or double wall: What’s the difference?

The key difference between a single wall and a double wall coffee cup is the layer. A single wall cup has one layer, while a double wall cup has two.

The additional layer on a double wall cup helps protect hands from hot drinks such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.

Due to the lack of insulation, a single wall cup may be paired with a cup sleeve for added protection against heat.

The benefits of a single wall cup

~Low cost per unit

~Lightweight

~Convenient

~Easy to recycle

The benefits of a double wall cup

~Strong and durable

~Extra insulation for heat protection

~No need for a cup sleeve or “doubling up” (putting cups inside another)

~A higher quality appearance and feel

The most sustainable choice

In most cases, single wall cups are the most sustainable choice.

Due to their simple design, single wall cups require less energy and paper to manufacture. Transport related emissions are also reduced due to the lower unit/case weight.

Single wall cups are therefore ideal for consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

However, not all paper cups are created equal. Unique double wall cups, such as PLA biodegradable cups, and compostable aqueous cups, are fully suited to achieving sustainable goals.

In addition to the production of various types of paper cups, our factory also has various types of paper bowls, welcome to order

Paper cups, in general, are compostable. However, you might hear people claiming that not all paper cups are compostable. The primary reason behind this being, paper cups are sometimes lined with plastic. Many foods service-based paper cups are made of petroleum-based plastics. If such is the case, then it is evident that those paper cups are non-compostable. You might be resorting to paper cups, thinking you’re trying to be sustainable; however, the result will not be practical and valuable. Thus, it’s better to be knowledgeable than to be ignorant while you make such purchases.

Compostable or Non-Compostable – Nature of Paper Cups

Paper cups are an eco-friendly option; this is a well-known fact. However, as stated earlier, not all paper cups are sustainable. Hence, if you buy a plastic-lined paper cup and try to decompose them, you might fail. Some of the paper cups have a thin layer of plastic lining inside them. This lining helps the cup to stand erect. Surprisingly, most of the paper cups have this lining. Hence, the recycling process fails when the plastic lining of the paper cups doesn’t get composted. Furthermore, paper cups certified by the sustainability departments are genuinely made of paper and can be used as compostable paper cups. These paper cups are eco-friendly--custom compostable paper cups and you can use this to decompose efficiently.

Recyclability of Disposable Cups

Be careful about the difference between disposable and biodegradable cups. You have to be cautious about the fact that all disposable cups are not biodegradable. Most of the paper cups are disposable. Yes, you can dispose of it off. But it is not biodegradable. Hence, in simple words, you can get rid of the cups and stuff them up in the garbage area. But you can’t go on and degrade them. So, they remain hazardous for the environment for a lifetime. Most biodegradable and compostable take away paper cups are made of virgin paper. In layman’s terms, they are directly manufactured from cutting trees. If no chemicals are mixed with the paper, you can dispose of it and biologically degrade the same. Keep a note of the certification and authenticity when you purchase disposable cups. Progressive Supplies are an authentic manufacturer of disposable cups. We produce fully compostable and biodegradable custom printed paper cups & paper bowl wholesale for your convenience. You can use them and also decompose them as per your wish! Check out our website for more product details.

WHAT ARE COMPOSTABLE COFFEE CUPS MADE FROM?

Our compostable coffee cups are made from sustainable forest paperboard with a natural plant-based PLA cornstarch lining.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING COMPOSTABLE COFFEE CUPS?

Using compostable disposable coffee cups as opposed to plastic-lined coffee cups is ultimately better for the environment. The reason for this is that traditional single use coffee cups cannot be recycled. Compostable coffee cups can be disposed of with food waste which is taken to a composting facility to be composted. Compostable packaging is an excellent eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BIODEGRADABLE AND COMPOSTABLE COFFEE CUPS?

It’s a common misconception that the terms “biodegradable” and “compostable” have the same meaning. The term “compostable” refers to a material that can break down in under 12 weeks. The term “biodegradable” doesn’t specify the time frame required to break down the material. An example of this is wood which is a biodegradable material, however it takes around 13 years for a standard wooden chair to decompose.

All of our packaging is certified 100% compostable meaning it is intended to be returned to the earth safely and provide nutrients once the material has completely broken down.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER

We offer the widest range of eco-friendly catering disposables in the UK and Europe. Browse our range of custom compostable paper coffee cups, customized PLA cold drinks cup biodegradabel paper cup, custom printed paper cups&paper bowls wholesale ,compostable hot food takeaway containers and more.

If you require samples of any of our products, please get in touch.

What are coffee cups made of?

Most people think that disposable printed cups wholesale are made of 100% paper. Not entirely true. While the main ingredient of a coffee cup is paper which forms the walls and base of the cup, it is no ordinary paper. It is actually lined with a coat of plastic which prevents hot liquid from penetrating through the cup and turning it useless.

Traditionally, disposable coffee cups were used by hospitals where maintaining personal hygiene and stopping the transfer of germs through shared utensils was of utmost importance. However, with an increasing takeaway culture the concept spread to fast food chains like McDonalds. Disposable coffee cups were useful since the customer could carry their drink outside and consume it at their own pace.

Why does a coffee cup pose problem?

paper cups wholesale are traditionally lined with PE (Polyethylene), which is a petrochemical based coating of plastic used to prevent leakage in a disposable paper cup. PE plastics are made of oil which is generated from a non-renewable resource, fossils. In addition, extraction of oil leads to environmental degradation. Processes such as fracking (using high water pressure to extract oil from the deepest pools of Earth) has been a primary cause of groundwater pollution upon which many communities depend and acts as their source of drinking water.

Although PE is a recyclable material, most coffee cups end up in landfills and are never recycled. Also, very few waste management companies specialize in recycling coffee cups as they need to separate the plastic lining from paper in order to successfully recycle.

Is there a solution to this problem?

YES!

Biodegradable  cups wholesale present themselves as a solution to the problem of plastic waste. Unlike traditional coffee cups, Bio Cups are lined with a PLA plastic coating. PLA (Polylactic Acid) plastic is made of plant-based renewable resources such as sugarcane starch and bamboo. As a result, PLA plastic is often hailed as an eco-friendly packaging solution for fast food restaurants, cafes and food businesses.

On the recycling front, the good news is- PLA lined Bio Cups are compostable!

That's right, these cups degrade and dissolve back into the soil after being exposed to certain conditions.

However, there is still a problem.

Many waste management composting facilities are unequipped in processing PLA plastics. Only a handful of facilities specialize in composting of degradable plastics.

In addition, due to lack of knowledge around PLA plastics and the question over whether they are recyclable or compostable, many bio cups are currently being packed into landfills. Or worse, they end up in standard recycling facilities and contaminate the traditional PE plastic pile rendering it unfit for recycling.

In light of the compostability of PLA Bio cups and it's advantage of being plant-based, we cannot deny that it is a positive step in environmental protection. Our efforts of separating PLA plastics from PE plastics will create benefit in future as the composting infrastructure grows and awareness increases.

As part of the almost 4,000  strong #BCorp community, we are always in a journey to keep improving.

For the last decade, we’ve been able to use BioPak's Biodegradable and Compostable take away paper cups, lined with a PLA plastic made from non-oil rapidly renewable resources which produce up to 75% less CO2 than conventional plastics.

Beyond whether or not the single-use cup can be composted or recycled, we have a significant litter challenge in Australia and second to the use of plastic water bottles,customized PLA paper cups are the highest contributor to litter waste.

At a #BCorp conference we were at recently,  the question was asked, "what if the government banned the single-use takeaway cup? How would we as roasters respond?"

Companies such as Keep Cup and Huskee Cup are making well designed, 100% PLA coated paper products. We encourage customers to bring in their own cup at our Roastery Outlet and Espresso Bar and offer a discount. Not everyone remembers their cup every time and even with encouragement, the take-up of our offer is very small.

What is the next step for us? We are not sure. We see this as a challenge that will take individuals, government, institutions and businesses working together to tackle it and to make real progress. As a #BCorp we are part of that conversation. As the first steps, we will continue to encourage reusable cups with a discount and we will continue to learn with BioPak about how to create composting solutions in urban and regional areas. If you have more ideas for us to learn about, please get in touch.