The move to more environmentally friendly packaging options does not necessarily require a complete elimination of plastic use; innovations in how to manufacture recycled plastics, the ability to make packaging lighter and the creation of better planning for how to dispose of the packaging, have all improved everyday items, like plastic candy jars and plastic candy jars with lids, into environmentally friendly products compared to just a couple of years ago.
Packaging has been a major issue for the environment, as there is a large amount of waste from packaging around the world. Let’s learn about the eco-friendly plastic jar options for Australia & Europe.
Why Eco-Friendly Plastic Jars Matter
The sustainable packaging industry is growing rapidly, with the eco-friendly segment alone being valued at approximately USD 354.7 billion by 2025, and expected to reach USD 564.6 billion by 2034.
Regulatory pressure in Europe is incredibly strong; under the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation in the EU, every package sold in the EU must contain at least a minimum percentage of recycled material by 2030.
The segment of eco-friendly flexible packaging, which includes packaging made from recycled plastics and bio-based materials, continues to expand; currently, the recycled plastics segment contributes a larger portion of revenue.
There is now an abundance of sustainable options for plastic candy jars & an expectation for jars to be made from recycled material, be reusable or recyclable.
What Makes a Green Plastic Candy Jar?
Not all plastic candy jars are made the same way; therefore, eco-friendly plastic candy jars must meet the following defining characteristics:
- Made of Recycled Plastics (rPET or Similar) – to help reduce the creation of virgin plastics.
- It can be recycled through Local Waste/Recycling Systems, which allows for recycling of a jar instead of disposal in a landfill.
- Are Durable and Reusable – The jar will last and may be reused many times instead of being treated as disposable.
- Minimally Designed/Light Weight – using less plastic overall.
- Use of both the Origin of the Material and Recycling Information Is Being Enforced through several regulations, like the PPWR, and through formats that use the “Digital Product Passport.”
These defining characteristics apply whether the jar is an empty candy jar, spice jar, or any other food jar.
The Demand in Europe & Australia
Europe is the largest buyer of sustainable rigid plastic packaging and will account for approximately 38% of the total global market share by 2024.
In Europe, consumers believe that packaging should be circular—able to be recycled, reused, and made from recycled materials—so they see great value in these attributes. A survey completed in 2025 showed that recyclability was perceived to be the most important factor in terms of sustainability across Europe, followed by the ability to reuse, and then the use of recycled materials.
While there’s still concern for environmental impact, it has somewhat diminished relative to the growing importance of cost and quality of product. Thus, for consumers to consider a sustainable option, they must consider it balanced with cost and quality.
Awareness of sustainability has also been growing in Australia, although there is variation in exact breakdowns within the country; however, there is increasing evidence of supermarkets and food manufacturing companies changing packaging practices to be recyclable and environmentally sustainable.
Packaging Market for Plastic Jars: Growing but Changing
Rigid plastic jars are used for candy, condiments, cosmetics, and many other items. These jars belong to the packaging market and are expected to continue to grow on a global basis. One study estimates that the plastic jar packaging market in Europe will be worth approximately 1.1 billion Euros in 2025 and could grow to approximately 1.8 billion by 2035 (CAGR: 5.1%).
This growth indicates strong demand for the product, but now producers of plastic jar packaging will be required to develop packaging that meets current and evolving sustainability regulations and expectations of their customers.
Ideas For Choosing Eco-Friendly Plastic Candy Jars
If you are looking for candy jars made from plastic that come with a lid, then there are some actionable suggestions to get eco-friendly candy jars:
- Choose recycled content candy jars (recycled PET or post-consumer resin) since they decrease your environmental footprint when compared to virgin plastics.
- Be sure to check the recycling label on the jar, as well as local landfill and recycling compatibility, because while a jar may have a means to be recycled theoretically, it may not be accepted in your local waste stream.
- Try to pick candy jars that have reuse value by selecting candy storage jars that are durable and can be reused as food storage, homemade treats, or pantry organization containers.
- Look for the design of the candy jar to be as minimal as possible and made from a mono-material, because typically candy jars that are made from mono-material are easier to recycle than candy jars made from different composites of plastics and metals.
- Avoid candy jars designed for one-time use only, and think of them as reusable containers rather than as single-use containers.
The Importance
“Recyclability, reusability, and the use of recycled content consistently rank in the top three most sought-after sustainable characteristics of packaging by today’s consumers.”
Changing how you view jars – as disposable instead of circular – is a meaningful shift and can yield many benefits over time by multiplying your impact across numerous homes and products.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly plastic containers, whether they are recyclable, reusable, or made from recycled plastic, are becoming increasingly popular in both Australia and Europe. Using durable, recyclable plastic candy jars that have lids reduces waste while maintaining the safety of products through proper storage methods. If you’re looking for reliable solutions regarding plastic candy jar packaging, consider contacting Yiruixing Packaging, a supplier that offers a wide variety of options for customers around the globe.
FAQs
Are plastic candy jars eco-friendly?
Yes, as long as the jars can be recycled or reused, or if they are made up of recycled materials (such as rPET).
What type of jar will be the most sustainable choice for me?
The best options are those that can be recycled and have a design that is as simple as possible.
Are recycled plastic candy jars better than glass jars?
In most situations, yes, because they are much lighter to ship than glass jars, and they can be recycled.
Does Europe mandate that packaging materials be made with recycled materials?
Yes, PPWR and other regulations require a minimum amount of recycled material to be used in package materials by 2030.
Will eco-friendly plastic candy jars work for my candy products?
Yes, eco-friendly plastic candy jars offer a fresh storage solution for candy products, but to maximize environmental impact, you must recycle the jars properly.
