Problem solving: Paper straws in drinks
13 October 2021 | Lynneric Potter, Food Packaging Technical Lead
The ban on plastic straws and stirrers, amongst other items, around the world is continuing to impact how customers and manufacturers think about plastics. With the ban on plastic straws becoming more widespread, paper straws have become the new norm.
However, this transition from plastic to paper straws has highlighted a few concerns – namely the paper straw’s quality and stability over time.
Is this a concern for your business?
As brands want to provide a great customer experience, manufacturers need to rise to the challenge of meeting demand for functional paper straws.
The challenges
Criticised by customers for failing to pierce drinks cartons and lacking flexibility like plastic straws, consumers are frustrated with their poor performance when immersed in liquids. Weakening and breaking down during use, small pieces of paper can end up floating around in the glass and drinks tasting like paper. Whilst the collapse and disintegration of paper straws spoil the consumer experience, when left in the mouth for too long or chewed on, they become a potential choking hazard.
Adequate testing is essential to ensure the paper straw of choice is suitable for the different drinks’ application.
Solution for increasing demand for food-safe paper straws
With increasing awareness around safety concerns and sensory quality, manufacturers and brands are paying more attention to ensure they provide paper straws which are fit-for-purpose for their customers.
We can help you achieve this. A recent project carried out by Campden BRI with Princes highlighted that paper straws can behave differently when exposed to different liquids. The bespoke project assessed the strength of a range of different paper straws for their juice cartons. The straws were tested with water and juice, at two temperatures, and for different lengths of time. The tests revealed that the temperature and type of drink impacted the integrity of the paper straws.
With these factors having a fundamental impact on paper straws performance, businesses need to consider the different usage scenarios from consumers. Therefore, adequate testing is essential to ensure the paper straw of choice is suitable for the different drinks’ application.
As beverage brands, restaurants and corporations continue the transition from plastic to paper straws, it is important that they offer strength and liquid resistance required to meet the needs of the consumer.
About Lynneric Potter
Lynneric has worked at Campden BRI since 1999, and has spent the majority of this time specialising in all things packaging, including supporting members and clients, managing contract projects, and conducting research.
Want to find out more?
Discover our wide range of paper and board tests over on our packaging service page.
Need help in this area?
With a range of testing facilities for assessing paper straws amongst other materials including physical and performance testing, contact Campden BRI today to ensure your straws are fit for purpose with the liquid of choice.
