How are biodegradable palm leaf bowls made?
Our bowls are made from the fallen leaves of Areca palm trees. These trees are found in tropical regions of the Pacific, Asia and parts of East Africa.
The tradition of using dinnerware made from plants and plant products has existed in Asia for centuries. Many households across the continent continue to use them as they originate from readily accessible sources, which do not contribute to environmental pollution.
Note that palm leaf bowls are not the same as bamboo bowls: an alternative product made from bamboo shoots.
How are palm bowls made?
As part of its natural growth cycle, an Areca palm tree sheds its dried fronds five to six times a year. Local farmers collect the discarded sheaths, trim them to remove the leaves and stack them into neat piles. The piles are then sent to the manufacturer.
At the manufacturing unit, the sheaths are cleaned with fresh water. They are then moulded into various shapes and sizes, using a heat press. The temperature used for moulding depends on the size and shape of the product. Larger bowls require higher temperature than smaller ones.
The finished product is sun dried, cleaned one more time, and then packed for shipping.
Sustainable, biodegradable, compostable
The process of making palm leaf products is a way of recycling a naturally occurring waste product. No trees are cut down or destroyed. As deforestation does not feature as part of the production cycle, there is no impact on the biodiversity of local regions.
In addition, no chemicals or artificial ingredients are used. The bowls are 100% organic, biodegradable, and are easily composted.
Naturally durable tableware
Palm leaf bowls are suited to serving a range of foods, due to their sturdiness. Their strength is derived from the natural hardiness of the raw wood-like sheaths, and the heated pressure moulding technique applied during manufacture.
The naturally versatile material provides several other advantages:
- Palm bowls do not bend or collapse with weight, nor do they absorb moisture, unlike paper or plastic utensils.
- The raised walls, combined with the strength of the leaves, helps the bowls to retain their shape and minimises accidental spills and leaks.
- The thickness of palm bowl walls reduces direct heat transfer to other surfaces.
Though disposable, palm bowls can be reused after serving dry foods. Just wipe clean.
The perfect catering solution for parties and home dining
Our disposable palm bowls are available in two shapes – square and round. Many sizes are available. Product size categories (e.g. small, medium or large) are indicated clearly on packaging for relative comparison.
We also supply palm plates and trays of different shapes and sizes – perfect for serving main courses, starters or side dishes.
Our complete range of recyclable palm products
A big fat wedding or a picnic, we have the dinnerware to cater to all needs. Our combo packs are a party essential. They come with plates (2 sizes) and cutlery and are available in different quantities to cater to parties of all sizes.
Our wheat straws are an alternative to paper and plastic straws and are perfect for anyone who cares about the environment. They are a natural by-product of wheat harvesting and are a perfect companion to cocktails and fruit juices.
