Edible cutlery: Chomping your way to zero waste
What's the story
With the ban on plastic straws, many cafes and restaurants did their bid to prevent plastic pollution and started using paper straws.
However, paper straws often come with an unpalatable smell, become soggy soon, and don't serve the purpose of a straw.
This led to the rise of other biodegradable options like reusable metal straws, straws made of coconut leaves, and edible straws.
Concept
A rising trend in sustainable dining solutions
Imagine chomping on the spoon after finishing your meal with it. Intriguing, right? This is the concept of edible cutlery.
Spoons, straws, bowls, and plates crafted from millet and rice starch promote zero waste.
While biodegradable packaging takes time to decompose, edible cutlery eliminates the need for disposal altogether.
By consuming the bowl and spoon, nothing is left behind but satisfaction in your tummy!
Why rice straws
Rice straws are environment-friendly and safe for consumption
As many startups sprouted across the country inventing biodegradable options, some eateries also actively adopted these sustainable alternatives.
Scuzo Ice 'O' Magic's founder, Mr. Gagan Anand, explains why they introduced edible straws, "In order to differentiate ourselves from other brands and address concerns related to paper straws, we decided to introduce rice straws colored with edible flavors, which are environmentally-friendly and safe for consumption."
Customer's reaction
Edible cutlery is a fun addition to the dining experience
"We ensured that incorporating edible straws into our offerings does not impose any additional financial burden on our customers. Our goal is to provide an affordable and sustainable dining experience," explained Mr. Anand.
This new aspect has added an element of fun to one's dining experience. "Customers are often motivated to finish their beverages promptly, eager to savor the edible straw," he informed.
Edible food packaging
Brands leading the way to sustainability with conscious branding
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the live popsicle concept and dessert café is introducing edible food packaging - specifically edible spoons designed for gelatos.
They aim to encourage conscious consumption while offering practical solutions that make a positive impact on the environment.
Like Scuzo Ice 'O' Magic, many responsible and conscious brands in the country are spearheading this journey toward embracing sustainability.
Other alternatives
Say goodbye to plastics with these sustainable alternatives
You can also try edible straws made of wheat, millet, and pulses, for a different taste. Besides being edible, this type of cutlery also holds shape and doesn't turn soggy while eating or drinking.
However, if eating your cutlery isn't appealing, opt for alternatives like metal, bamboo, or palm leaf straws, as well as leaf plates and bowls instead of plastic or paper utensils.