Packing Chips and Loose Fill

No, packing peanuts (also called packing chips) are not edible and should not be consumed. Packing chips are typically made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) or biodegradable materials like starch-based polymers. These materials are not intended for human consumption and can pose health risks if ingested.

The regular packing peanuts made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) are not biodegradable and can be harmful if ingested, leading to potential choking hazards and digestive issues. Biodegradable packing peanuts, made from starch-based materials, are designed to break down more easily in the environment, but they are still not suitable for consumption.

To ensure safety, it’s essential to keep packing peanuts and any other packaging materials out of reach of children and pets. Properly dispose of packing peanuts by recycling them or following the guidelines provided by your waste management provider.

When it comes to biodegradable packing peanuts, they should be composted or disposed of in accordance with local regulations for biodegradable materials.

If you have concerns about the safety of any packaging material, it’s best to consult with the packaging manufacturer for proper guidance.

Loose fill packaging, also known as packing peanuts or loose fill packing chips, is a type of protective packaging material used to fill empty spaces or voids in shipping boxes and packages. It is designed to provide cushioning and protect the contents from damage during transit.

Loose fill packaging is typically made from two main types of materials:

• Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): Traditional packing peanuts are made from expanded polystyrene, which is a lightweight and rigid material boasting excellent shock-absorbing properties. EPS packing peanuts are not biodegradable and are often used for cushioning fragile and delicate items.


• Biodegradable Materials: Macfarlane Packaging offers bio packing chips from starch-based polymers. These biodegradable packing peanuts are designed to break down more easily in the environment, reducing their environmental impact compared to traditional EPS peanuts.

Loose fill packaging is a popular choice for providing void fill and cushioning for various products during shipping. When used properly, it helps prevent products from shifting and moving within the packaging, reducing the risk of damage during transportation.

While traditional EPS packing chips are not easily recyclable, some biodegradable loose fill options offer a more environmentally friendly alternative. Businesses can choose loose fill packaging that aligns with their sustainability goals and ensures products reach their destination safely and securely.

At the moment, packing chips are not recyclable through home or local recycling waste streams.

However, Macfarlane’s Pelaspan® Bio Loose fill is made from starch, so it is compostable.

Biodegradable loose fill is a type of protective packaging material used for void fill and cushioning during shipping and packaging. Unlike traditional packing peanuts made from expanded polystyrene (EPS), which are not biodegradable, biodegradable loose fill is designed to break down naturally in the environment over time.

Biodegradable loose fill is made from starch-based polymers. These renewable and compostable materials are derived from natural sources like corn or potatoes and are formulated to biodegrade under certain conditions. When disposed of properly in a composting environment, biodegradable loose fill breaks down into natural components without leaving harmful residues or polluting the environment.

The main advantages of using biodegradable loose fill include:

• Environmental Friendliness: Biodegradable loose fill reduces the environmental impact of packaging materials, as it does not contribute to long-lasting waste in landfills or oceans.


• Compostability: Many biodegradable loose fill options are compostable, which means they can be added to compost piles to decompose and contribute to soil enrichment.


• Safety: Biodegradable loose fill is non-toxic and safe for handling, making it suitable for various packaging applications.


• Versatility: Biodegradable loose fill can be used to protect a wide range of products, providing effective cushioning and void fill during shipping.

While biodegradable loose fill offers environmental benefits, it is essential to ensure that it is disposed of correctly to allow for proper decomposition. Businesses and consumers should follow local waste management guidelines for compostable materials and avoid mixing biodegradable loose fill with other waste streams that may hinder its ability to biodegrade

Yes, Macfarlane Packaging offers bio loose fill packing chips. These packing chips are eco-friendly, pourable loose fill and are 100% compostable, making them great for filling voids, especially in awkward spaces around packed items.

This makes them ideal for putting multiple picks into one box or for packing products that vary in size. We recommend this product for less fragile items, as some movement in the pack can occur during transit.

Our bio loose fill packing peanuts are:

• 100% biodegradable


• 100% compostable


• Can be re-used