Since July 2021, there has been a ban within the European Union on disposable plastic items, such as plates, cutlery and straws. The plastic straw we have all become so accustomed to has given way to a more sustainable alternative: the paper straw. But has the paper straw actually been the most sustainable and user-friendly solution to this plastic problem?
Meet the plastic-free straws
The biggest annoyance of the paper straw is the softening of the material while using it. You probably know it: you feel like a delicious cold drink, get a paper straw to go with it and halfway through your drink, your straw gets soft, limp and breaks off as well. Sure, this straw is a better alternative than plastic, but whether it actually consumes more deliciously?
In contrast, the rice straws do not soften while drinking like a paper straw does. These are hard and firm, making the use feel like the straws we were used to before the plastic ban. In addition, they are easily degradable: after a long time in water, the straw slowly dissolves. But don't worry, fortunately that doesn't happen when you use the straw.
In fact, rice straws are made from rice starch, water and some dye. These ingredients are mixed under high temperatures, after which they are formed into the shape of a straw under high pressure. After a short cooling period, the rice straws are automatically trimmed to the correct length, after which the straws are sterilized under high temperature: ready for shipment to your catering establishment!
Why this straw wins out over the paper variety
Rice grows many times faster than trees, from which the now widely used paper straws are made. In fact, the paper industry is experiencing tremendous pressure after the plastic ban, as more and more packaging is made from cardboard. This means the industry needs more raw materials, which are actually in short supply worldwide. Scaling down the amount of paper straws being made could alleviate this, saving forests of trees in the long run. This is not only nice for cooling our earth, but also for animal habitability.
A feast for the eyes and for nature
"If you want an eye-catcher from which to drink you should go for a rice straw. You can have your logo put on it and choose a color that matches your brand identity. In doing so, you also choose a sustainable, biodegradable option."
