Top Biodegradable Hot Cups Wholesale Suppliers & Buying Guide
Date: 07/09/2024
In the UK, the shift towards environmentally friendly products has made biodegradable hot cups a popular choice for businesses and consumers alike.
This growing demand reflects a collective effort to reduce plastic waste and its impact on the planet. As a result, finding reliable biodegradable hot cups wholesale suppliers has become a priority for cafes, restaurants, and offices aiming to make more sustainable choices.
This list highlights the top five suppliers in the UK, offering high-quality, eco-friendly options for your hot beverage needs.
Key Takeaways:
Explore the diversity of eco-friendly biodegradable and compostable hot cups available.
Understand the balance between cost and environmental benefits when choosing biodegradable cups.
Find the best biodegradable hot cups wholesale suppliers in the UK
What are Biodegradable and Compostable Cups?
The terms 'biodegradable' and 'compostable' might seem interchangeable, but they hold unique meanings.
Biodegradable products can break down naturally by microorganisms over time, leaving no harmful residues.
Compostable products, on the other hand, not only biodegrade but also do so within a specific timeframe under composting conditions, turning into nutrient-rich humus. This distinction is crucial for understanding the environmental impact of the products we use.
Buy Biodegradable Cups at B&P Wholesale
Can Biodegradable Cups be Used for Hot Drinks?
Absolutely! Biodegradable cups are designed to handle hot drinks just as well as traditional cups. However, it's important to ensure that the cups are correctly specified for hot liquids to prevent any mishaps.
Materials Used in Biodegradable Cups
Biodegradable cups are crafted using a variety of sustainable materials, each offering unique benefits and characteristics. Here’s a deeper look into the most commonly used materials:
1. Polylactic Acid (PLA)
As mentioned, PLA is a bioplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch, sugarcane, or tapioca roots. It's clear and looks similar to petroleum-based plastics, but it's fully biodegradable and compostable under industrial composting conditions. PLA-lined cups are excellent for both cold and hot beverages, maintaining the integrity of the cup without leaking.
2. Paper
Biodegradable Paper Cups with Cafe Mocha Design from B&P Wholesale
Paper cups coated with a biodegradable lining are another popular choice. These are usually lined with PLA instead of polyethylene, making the entire cup compostable. The paper itself is sourced from sustainably managed forests, and these cups are capable of biodegrading under the right composting conditions, reducing the use of virgin paper and the overall carbon footprint.
3. Bamboo Fiber
Bamboo is a fast-growing, sustainable resource that requires no fertilizer and regenerates from its own roots. Bamboo fiber cups are durable, light, and have a minimal environmental impact. They are often paired with PLA lining for added durability and are known for being stylish as well as eco-friendly.
4. Wheat Straw
Wheat straw is the leftover stalk after wheat grains are harvested, typically considered an agricultural by-product. Using it to make cups helps in waste reduction and adds value to what would otherwise be waste material. Wheat straw cups are compostable and often used in settings where reducing plastic use is a priority.
5. Bagasse
Bagasse is a by-product of sugarcane processing and is used to make disposable cups that are both biodegradable and compostable. These cups are usually sturdy, handle heat well, and are suitable for both hot and cold drinks. Bagasse breaks down quickly under composting conditions and offers a sustainable alternative to traditional disposable cups.
Each of these materials has its benefits, from the renewability of resources like bamboo and corn to the upcycling of agricultural by-products like wheat straw and bagasse. By choosing biodegradable cups made from these materials, businesses and consumers can significantly reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying the convenience of disposable cups.
Types of Biodegradable Coffee Cups
1. Single, Double, and Triple Wall Cups
Biodegradable cups come in various forms to suit different needs. Single-wall cups are suitable for cooler drinks or shorter usage times, while double and triple-wall cups offer better insulation for hot beverages, keeping them warm without burning your hands.
2. Compostable Hot Cups with Lids
Yes, you can even get biodegradable cups with lids! These lids are usually made from the same compostable materials as the cups, ensuring that the entire product is environmentally friendly.
Best Biodegradable Hot Cups Wholesale Suppliers in UK
1. B&P Wholesale
- Year of Establishment: Over 50 years ago
- Location: Sheffield, England
- Product types: Ripple Cups, Compostable Hot Drink Paper Cups, Single Wall Cups, Lids and Accessories
B&P Wholesale is a family-operated business that has been supplying quality products to the catering trade for over five decades. Based in Sheffield, England, the company has built its reputation on offering a wide range of high-quality food packaging and catering supplies at competitive wholesale prices.
B&P Wholesale caters to a diverse clientele, including establishments in and around Sheffield and other areas like Rotherham, Chesterfield, Barnsley, and Penistone, through a local delivery service. Furthermore, they extend their services across Mainland UK, offering next-day delivery through a courier service to meet the demands of their clients efficiently.
The company's product range is extensive, covering everything from takeaway food boxes made of kraft, plastic, or bagasse, to cups for both hot and cold drinks, carrier bags, polythene bags, and various catering disposables like foil, cling film, cutlery, and napkins.
B&P Wholesale continually expands its product line and knowledge base, with a strong focus on adopting biodegradable, compostable, and environmentally friendly products. This initiative reflects their commitment to keeping pace with the packaging industry's evolution and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions. The detailed information about their offerings, including prices and images, is readily accessible on their website, demonstrating transparency and convenience for customers.
2. Deli Supplies Limited
- Location: Bridlington, East Yorkshire, UK
- Product type: Ripple Cups, PLA Biodegradable & Compostable Hot Drink Paper Cups, Single Wall Cups, Lids and Accessories
Deli Supplies Limited, based in Bridlington, East Yorkshire, UK, specializes in offering a comprehensive range of catering equipment, spare parts, disposable products, and packaging solutions tailored to meet the needs of the food service, cash & carry, and retail sectors. With a stock of over 3000 product lines and the capability to provide next-day delivery from their own warehouse and distribution space, Deli Supplies demonstrates a strong commitment to fulfilling customer requirements efficiently. The company leverages its own delivery vehicles and partnerships with major transport companies to ensure timely local and regional distribution across the UK.
The company's approach to service is centered around providing effective solutions to its customers, with an emphasis on high-quality products and exceptional customer support. Deli Supplies does not only act as a distributor but also engages in the direct supply of products, making it a key player in both the production and distribution sectors of the industry. Offering a diverse selection of paper cups, including eco-friendly options, Deli Supplies caters to a broad market seeking sustainable and quality packaging solutions.
3. Eco Biopack
Eco Biopack specializes in the production and distribution of a wide range of environmentally friendly paper products. Their product line includes compostable coffee cups with a biodegradable coating, ensuring that these items do not harm the environment post-use.
The cups are designed to resist moisture penetration, with the inside coated with bioplastics, and are completely biodegradable compliant with DIN13432 standards.
Moreover, the company uses chlorine-free processes to bleach their paper cups, ensuring the safety and quality of the beverages they hold. Eco Biopack's commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through their use of water-based inks for printing, which not only conveys the environmental benefits of their products but also reduces harmful chemical use.
Their product portfolio extends beyond paper cups to include a variety of other sustainable items such as single and double-wall paper cups, ripple cups, vending cups, coffee cup lids, cup accessories, PLA cups, rPET cups, biodegradable straws, bottles, compostable tableware, cutlery, napkins, bags, take-away packaging, reusables, and hygiene products.
4. El Pack
El Pack Packaging Solutions focuses on supplying a wide array of disposable products suitable for catering needs. They offer high-quality recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable items that cater to cafes, bars, corporate events, and festivals.
Their product range includes coffee cups, waffle boxes, greaseproof paper, napkins, burger boxes, and ice-cream tubs, all of which can be printed with a unique logo. Specializing in short print runs, El Pack serves a broad audience, bringing visibility and life to products through customized branding.
Their PLA range of tumblers, made from renewable base materials, are 100% biodegradable and compostable, while their clear recyclable PET tumblers highlight the company’s commitment to sustainability by offering products that can be processed and reused.
The company's dedication to offering products that are either recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable aligns with global efforts toward environmental responsibility.
5. MBS Wholesale
- Location: Harrow, Greater London, UK
MBS Wholesale operates as a family-run business located in Harrow, Greater London, and has been serving the hospitality industry for over three decades. The company specializes in the wholesale distribution of a wide range of products, including glassware, crockery, plastic glassware, barware, catering equipment, and cleaning products. Their extensive catalog features over 30,000 products from reputable and well-known brands such as Genware, Artis, Utopia, Churchill, Elia, DPS Tableware, Arcoroc, Lincat, Hoshizaki, among others. This diverse product range enables MBS Wholesale to meet the varied needs of their clientele, which includes bars, restaurants, schools, universities, public sector organizations, nightclubs, event suppliers, hotels, residential nursing care homes, and mobile caterers, ensuring quality and service at competitive prices.
Cost Comparison: Biodegradable vs. Standard Cups
Are Biodegradable Cups More Expensive? Initially, biodegradable cups can appear to be more expensive than standard plastic-lined cups. However, when considering the long-term environmental and financial savings, the investment in biodegradable cups is exceedingly worthwhile.
Long-Term Cost Savings: By reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills, businesses can lower their waste management costs. Additionally, as environmental regulations become stricter, using sustainable products like biodegradable cups can help avoid future costs associated with non-compliance.
Consumer Appeal: There is a growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Businesses that adopt green practices often see an increase in customer loyalty and brand value, which can translate into higher sales and profits.
Government Incentives: In some regions, businesses using sustainable practices may qualify for tax benefits, grants, or subsidies, further offsetting the initial higher costs.
Leading the Market in Cost-Effective Solutions B&P Wholesale stands out as a top supplier of biodegradable and compostable hot cups, offering one of the most competitive pricing structures in the market. This affordability makes B&P Wholesale particularly attractive to businesses like bakeries, cafés, and the broader food industry, which often operate on tight margins and high volumes.
Wide Range of Products: B&P Wholesale’s extensive range includes various types of eco-friendly cups, such as single-wall, triple-wall, and ripple cups, all available at wholesale prices. This variety ensures that businesses can find the exact type of cup they need to meet their service standards and customer expectations.
Quality and Sustainability: Despite their competitive pricing, B&P Wholesale does not compromise on quality or sustainability. Their products are rigorously tested to meet environmental standards, ensuring that businesses do not have to sacrifice performance for price.
Local and National Reach: With a strong distribution network that covers both local areas around Sheffield and broader regions across Mainland UK, B&P Wholesale ensures timely delivery and consistent supply, which is crucial for businesses that need to manage their inventory effectively.
Decomposition and Environmental Impact
How Long Does it Take for Biodegradable Cups to Decompose? The decomposition time can vary. Most biodegradable cups can break down within 90 days in a commercial composting facility, a stark contrast to traditional plastic cups, which can take hundreds of years to decompose.
Environmental Benefits of Switching to Biodegradable Cups: Switching to biodegradable cups reduces landfill waste and the release of methane—a potent greenhouse gas—from decomposing materials in landfills. This switch not only helps reduce your business's carbon footprint but also aligns with a growing consumer demand for sustainable practices.