Walk up to the egg section of any grocerey store and you will see a variety of options: organic/non-organic, large/extra large/jumbo, brown/white…. You will also find different package types: plastic, styrofoam and paper board. The internet consensus is that the egg carton was invented in 1911, and the paper pulp design of today’s egg cartons was patented in 1931.
This design worked for decades, but ultimately styrofoam and plastic egg cartons were introduced and are abundant on today’s shelves. The thing is that plastic and styrofoam don’t do a better job of protecting and storing the eggs. And the overall design of the cartons are essentially the same. So why buy eggs in cartons that will end up in a landfill?
JUST SAY NO!
There is no reason to buy eggs in styrofoam or plastic. It turns out that the paper pulp carton designed way back when does a great job. The peak-shaped dividers cradle the eggs to provide the cushioning needed to protect the eggs and prevent breaking.
Let’s Compare:
Plastic: “recyclable”–but we know what that means–less than 6% of plastic in the US is recycled.
Styrofoam: Not recyclable–ends up in landfill
Paper pulp: Recyclable, compostable, zerowaste, plastic-free
Things I Love:
- Plastic-Free
- Paper pulp carton and paper wrap are recyclable
- Paper pulp is compostable
Things I Don’t Love:
- Don’t get paperboard wet–it breaks down
Product Info:
- Paper pulp egg cartons are widely available at most stores.
Paper Pulp Egg Carton Rating
Performance
Convenience
Total
Seriously, I couldn’t agree more on the plastic egg cartons. WHY? Totally irresponsible. I won’t buy those eggs or the ones in styrofoam.