Lecka, a company that specializes in nutrition for endurance sports, made the unexpected decision to switch from bioplastics to polypropylene (PP) packaging for its energy gels and bars. This move contrasts with global initiatives to transition away from plastics and towards bio-based, compostable materials. The company’s founder, Markus Gnirck, states that the switch was necessitated by the need to protect product quality and integrity, as well as the limitations of compostable materials in harsh outdoor conditions. The new PP packaging has received positive feedback from customers and has improved sustainability outcomes, as it can be recycled in most facilities worldwide. Lecka’s decision was made after testing various packaging materials with athletes, and the company is now advocating for better waste management systems and more research into sustainable materials. According to Lecka, compostable materials are not as sustainable as they seem, as they are not necessarily better in terms of recycling performance, energy usage, water usage, land usage, and ecotoxicity. The company’s new packaging has also extended the shelf life of its products, reducing wastage and providing a better taste and freshness experience for customers.
After reassessing its environmental impact, the sports nutrition brand transitions to fossil fuel-based plastic packaging, citing significant sustainability gains from this unconventional move.
