In California, GreenTek Packaging has launched what it says is the first-ever disposable cutlery made from hemp. The Hemptensils™ line of forks, spoons, and knives are 100% plant-based and compostable but have a shelf life of more than four years. They are currently available on GreenTek’s site as well as Amazon.
The hemp is currently sourced from California, Kentucky, and North Dakota and the company is in talks with Midwest co-ops to expand supply.
“There are 40 billion single use utensils used in America every year, of which barely nine percent are recycled. And considering the fact that businesses are using more plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic than they previously were, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050,” says GreenTek Founder Jordan Hinshaw in a press release.
GreenTek also manufactures hemp polymer cosmetic containers and secondary packaging products, and is looking to sell hemp straws in the near future.