Egg carton

Egg carton is a packaging material specifically designed to protect eggs during transportation and storage. It is typically made from paper pulp, plastic, or recycled paper, and is designed to hold a specific number of eggs, usually 6, 12, or 18.

History

The egg carton was invented by Joseph Coyle in 1911 in British Columbia, Canada, to solve a dispute between a farmer and a hotel owner about broken eggs. The design has been improved and modified over the years, but the basic concept remains the same.

Design

The design of an egg carton is simple yet effective. Each egg is held in a separate compartment, which reduces the risk of eggshell breakage. The carton also has a lid that can be closed to protect the eggs from damage and contamination. The size and shape of the compartments can vary depending on the size of the eggs they are designed to hold.

Materials

Egg cartons can be made from a variety of materials. The most common material is molded pulp, which is made from recycled paper. This material is cheap, lightweight, and biodegradable, making it a popular choice for egg producers. Plastic egg cartons are also common, especially for larger eggs or specialty eggs. These cartons are more durable and can be reused, but they are not biodegradable. Some egg cartons are made from polystyrene, a type of plastic that is lightweight and insulating, but not biodegradable.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of egg cartons depends on the material used. Paper pulp cartons are biodegradable and can be recycled, but they require energy to produce and transport. Plastic cartons are not biodegradable and can contribute to plastic pollution if not properly recycled. However, they are more durable and can be reused.

See Also

• Packaging and labeling
• Food storage
• Recycling