Oil resistance in molded fiber plates, bowls and containers has traditionally been provided by chemicals called Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, commonly referred to as PFAS. The foodservice industry as a whole has used short-chain PFAS chemicals to provide oil-resistance. World Centric began replacing short-chain PFAS in its molded fiber products with plant-based PLA linings as a barrier in its Leaf molded fiber products released in 2020.
World Centric is now releasing its ground-breaking Leaf+ solution with a select group of products and will expand the line over the coming months. Composed of all-natural and 100% plant-based ingredients, Leaf+ provides an alternative that doesn’t require PFAS or PLA to achieve high temperature oil resistance. World Centric Leaf+ products will provide oil and grease resistance for many types of foods with temperatures up to 200° Fahrenheit (93° Celsius).
All of World Centric’s molded fiber retail products, including 6”, 9”, 10” and 10” 3-compartment plates, along with their 11.5 oz bowls, will incorporate the Leaf+ solution. They will become available across North America later this year. Select foodservice items will also be produced using our Leaf+ solution during the coming year
The new Leaf+ solution has passed all compostability tests under ASTM standards and is under review for third party certification.
“Molded fiber products with Leaf+ join the complete range of compostable solutions offered by World Centric and build on our dedication to creating alternatives in disposable foodservice ware that is better for the planet,” added Stephany. “Given the increased awareness of consumers to the environmental issues with PFAS and an increased number of ordinances banning their use, operators and consumers are seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact and meet local, state, or regional requirements. Leaf+, along with all of our other compostable products, help make that possible.”
In addition to its innovative, market-leading solutions, World Centric is one of the leading mission-driven companies. The company annually gives 25% of its net profits to global grassroots social and environmental projects that have a significant positive impact in providing basic needs for their communities and the environment. In 2020 World Centric gave over $1,700,000 in cash and product donations, providing assistance, and helping to create systems change at the root of many social and environmental issues.
For more information, please visit www.worldcentric.com/leafplus.
About World Centric
Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Rohnert Park, CA, World Centric provides compostable products for the foodservice industry and to consumers through retail channels to reduce environmental impact. By innovating in plant-based materials and product design, World Centric has developed over 350 foodservice and retail products across tableware, cutlery, and food packaging. All of World Centric’s products are designed to turn to soil once composted in commercial composting facilities where available. As a Certified B Corporation and California Benefit Corporation, World Centric upholds rigorous standards of social and environmental responsibility and donates 25% of net profits to organizations addressing social and environmental issues with $8M million allocated for donated for social and environmental change. Please visit worldcentric.com for more information.
Media Contacts:
Stephanie Jimenez
stephanie@jillschmidtpr.com
c: 224-875-2311
Mark Marinozzi
VP of Marketing, World Centric
markm@worldcentric.com