How Recycled and Biodegradable Bubble Pouches Are Made
How recycled and biodegradable bubble pouches are manufactured.
Recycled bubble pouch production
Quick answer
Recycled bubble pouches are made by blending post-consumer recycled LDPE with virgin material, then manufacturing through the same bubble-forming process as standard pouches. At 30%+ recycled content, they avoid the Plastic Packaging Tax. Performance is identical to virgin at the same film specifications. Biodegradable versions use plant-starch (PLA) films that break down in industrial composting, though UK infrastructure is currently limited.
Biodegradable production
Corn or sugarcane starch converted to polymer film.
Same production process with different raw material.
Breaks down within 12 weeks at 60C+.
Alternatives: eco alternatives or paper pouches.
Quality comparison
Recycled pouches perform identically to virgin at the same specifications. Biodegradable (PLA) pouches may have slightly lower temperature tolerance and shorter shelf life. Both pass standard cushioning and air retention tests.
Frequently asked questions
Post-consumer LDPE is cleaned, pelletised, and blended with virgin material.
Yes, identical performance at the same film specifications.
Plant-starch (PLA) films from corn or sugarcane.
Most require industrial composting at 60C+.
At 30%+ recycled content, yes.
Part of our guide
Product Guide: Bubble Pouches
Expert guides on bubble pouches for protecting fragile items during storage and shipping.
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