Rethinking Packaging: COSSMA

Grown bio’s sustainable packaging solutions are made from mycelium, a remarkable natural material sourced from the root structure of a fungus. The biodegradable packaging is not only eco-friendly and highly functional, but also visually stunning, leaving the customers with a good feeling, even when they dispose of it.

The cosmetic industry has been undergoing a significant transformation in recent years, with a strong emphasis on natural ingredients, ethical production, and individualised products. In light of these changes, packaging has become a crucial aspect of the industry, with topics such as minimalist design, reduced impact, and increased use of biobased materials and a better end-of-life becoming increasingly important.

Sustainable packaging is critical for the cosmetic industry’s future. That’s why Grown bio offers packaging solutions that align with the values of the industry. Sustainability is at the core of everything the company does, from the products and packaging to the entire supply chain.

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"The cosmetic industry has been undergoing a significant transformation in recent years."

Grown, not manufactured

Different than most other packaging forms, Mushroom packaging isn’t manufactured. It’s grown into the unique shapes: the innovative approach relies on the natural process of mycelium growth to create the packaging products. At the facility in the Netherlands, the mycelium is the star of the show, quietly and efficiently doing its work. Once filled in a growth form, the mycelium creates a rigid shape in only 6 days. At the 6th day, the shapes are taken out of the growth chambers and moved into the drying chambers. In those ovens, the mycelium is killed in two stages. First, at a moderate temperature the products are dehydrated. The outcoming water is later reused in the factory.

The last hours of the drying phase are at a temperature of 80°C which kills the mushroom and renders the shape inert: ready to be used as packaging.

So, what does a mycelium factory look like then? It is a spacious place filled with many growth and drying chambers, and a central area where the growing forms are filled and prepared for the mycelium to work its magic.

Sustainable and stylish: Packaging for Millennials and Gen Z

Today’s consumers are more demanding than ever, taking a closer look at the world of packaging and selecting brands based on their commitment to sustainability, not just the quality of their products. As a sustainable brand, the focus is on creating appealing and protective packaging that values the intrinsic emotional quality and sustainability of materials.

Today’s consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, seek purpose-driven brands that prioritise environmental impact reduction. Therefore, more and more natural materials are used, and low impact production technologies are continuously explored to create high-quality, premium-looking products that are accessible at affordable prices.

From Fossil Fuels to Fungi: The Future of Sustainable Packaging

The most recent European packaging legislation has become even more stringent with regards to packaging materials and its devastating effect on the planet.

This effect is felt at different stages of the production of packaging, but two stages stand out.

First, during the collection of raw materials: extracting fossil fuels to make plastic, cutting trees to make cardboard, or using toxic inks for colourful brand messages, often with silver or gold-coloured, varnished lacquers. All of these activities use raw materials that are not renewable, or at a considerable cost.

The second climate impact of packaging is during end of life, since many packages do not make it to the reuse or recycling phase. For example, less than 15% of plastic is actually recycled.

Luckily, more and more brands in the cosmetics industry are going beyond the new European packaging legislation and set themselves objectives that are more ambitious. Reuse of shampoo or soap bottles is gaining popularity. A shift from plastic to paper is seen. Increased focus on the recyclability of packaging, and last but not least, clear communication to end-users about recycling.

In this light, mushroom packaging is a giant step forward. The only raw materials are mycelium and organic waste fibers. This guarantees that the “beginning of life” has a minimal footprint. Many of the mycelium packaging products made by Grown bio are reusable, which means there is less packaging waste. And if a mycelium product must be discarded, it can be done in nature. All elements of a mycelium packaging are home and marine compostable.

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"The only raw materials are mycelium and organic waste fibers."

Stepping up the Packaging Game

Sustainable packaging has become an important topic for many companies in recent years, and the cosmetic industry is no exception. Many companies are transitioning to sustainable packaging to reduce their environmental impact and promote their commitment to sustainability. Grown bio offers sustainable packaging solutions that are environmentally friendly and promote a circular economy. mushroom packaging is an example of a material that is gaining popularity due to its exceptional protective and functional properties, while also being eco-friendly.

Reasons how mushroom packaging helps to reduce the enviromental impact and delight customers:

Made with nature’s intelligence: The packaging is made from mycelium and upcycled agricultural waste, providing a natural and eco-friendly solution.
Customisable & eye-catching designs: The packaging is customisable, with a range of shapes to choose from, and can provide excellent protection for a huge variety of products.
Protection and functionality: It offers superior protection for different products, ensuring they arrive safely.
Eco-friendly and zero waste: 100% home-compostable, making it a sustainable alternative to plastic and Styrofoam.
Brand booster: A great way to promote a brand’s sustainability initiatives and to make a positive impact on the environment

Future of packaging

The cosmetics industry is increasingly moving towards sustainable packaging solutions, reflecting a growing demand for more environmentally friendly products.

By adopting sustainable packaging solutions, companies can significantly reduce their environmental impact and contribute towards a more sustainable future. These solutions are designed to meet the needs of brands looking to make a positive impact on the environment while still maintaining the functionality and aesthetic appeal of their products.