Ahead of the curve: how kp is ready for America’s next packaging evolution

As the US moves to eliminate single-use EPS packaging to support a more circular economy - mirroring the movement seen in Europe - what began as isolated state initiatives has evolved into a coordinated national movement. It started with Washington, D.C. in 2016, which began tightening restrictions early. Maryland was the first state to implement a full ban in 2020, followed by Maine and Vermont in 2021. New Jersey and New York joined the effort in 2022. Colorado enacted its ban in January 2024, with Washington state following in June 2024.

At kp, we're ideally positioned to guide businesses through this transition because we've already navigated it successfully. When the UK implemented its comprehensive EPS ban in October 2023, we weren't just ready - we were ahead of the curve with kp Infinity^®, our fully recyclable Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) solution.

The UK's experience provided invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities that regulatory transitions create. We witnessed confusion in the marketplace as businesses and consumers alike struggled to distinguish between compliant from non-compliant packaging. We saw how some of the new alternatives compromised both performance and sustainability goals. Most importantly, we learned that successful navigation of these changes required packaging that doesn't just meet regulatory requirements but excels on multiple key fronts.

kp Infinity^® embodies this philosophy of performance without compromise. Our EPP-based solution delivers superior performance across every metric that matters to foodservice operations, while providing the regulatory compliance and sustainability credentials that today's US market demands.

Extensive testing demonstrates that kp Infinity^® keeps food hotter by more than 50°F (10°C) compared to alternatives like bagasse or paper-based containers. Hot food stays piping hot, cold food remains refreshingly chilled, yet the exterior remains cool and comfortable to handle.

Durability is equally impressive; kp Infinity^® resists water, hot oils, and acids, dramatically reducing leak and spill risks that can damage both food quality and brand reputation. The microwaveable design also adds consumer convenience, allowing for easy reheating.

Importantly, kp Infinity^® is fully recyclable in existing polypropylene (PP) waste streams, with prominent 'Recycle Me' messaging that educates consumers and supports circular economy goals. This addresses not just current compliance requirements but anticipates the recycled content mandates and EPR fee structures that are rapidly approaching.

What sets kp apart isn't just product innovation – it's our partnership approach. We understand that regulatory transitions create operational uncertainty, and we're committed to making the shift as seamless as possible for our customers and partners. We've invested in local expertise, with teams who understand both the evolving regulatory landscape and the practical realities of foodservice operations.

Our track record speaks volumes. The UK market has validated our approach, with foodservice businesses of all sizes successfully transitioning to kp Infinity^® without compromising quality, cost effectiveness, or consumer satisfaction.

For American foodservice businesses and distributors, the question isn't whether transformative change is coming – it's whether businesses are prepared. At kp, we're not just ready; we're energised by the opportunity to help businesses navigate this transition successfully.

With kp Infinity®, the future of American foodservice packaging is already here and without a doubt, it’s better than what came before.

Ready to future-proof your foodservice packaging? Contact our team today to discover how kp Infinity^® can turn regulatory compliance into competitive advantage.