Hi Gerard, your assumption is correct, the current packages are not recyclable. Here's why:
We've looked into recyclability of our packaging and have explored the option of biodegradable packaging. However, we have yet to find an option that we trust is actually better for the environment.
It's not like they're not around. Packaging suppliers are happy to offer recyclable and even biodegradable plastics, be it at a higher cost. However, when looking into the actual environmental consequences, the benefits, if any, seem very marginal. The production and recycling process of these packages require more resources that in sum the effect on the environment was worse than that of most regular packaging.
We don't want to start using recyclable or biodegradable pouches just to look more sustainable. We want to actually be sustainable. In this regard, we've so far chosen for lower cost over recyclability. A lower price will make sure that Jake is affordable for more people. Sometimes a small change to a large group of people can have a bigger impact than a big change to a small group of people. The change to a vegan diet far outweighs the possible benefits of recyclable packaging in this regard.
Moreover, to put things in perspective, a year's worth of Jake pouches fits into a single trash bin. Most households take out the trash a couple of times a week. That being said, we're here to make the world a healthier place so we'll keep looking at these options and we do believe that they probably will become viable in the future.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2873020/
https://www.bustle.com/articles/125641-is-recycling-worth-it-the-answer-might-surprise-you
