North America’s First Bread Bag With 30% PCR Plastic Hits Shelves
Published: 20 Feb 2026
Author: Precedence Research
In January 2026, an important move towards sustainable food packaging was announced in North America. Two companies, St. John’s Packaging and Bimbo Bakeries USA joined forces to introduce a new bread bag made with 30 percent post consumer recycled(PCR) plastic. This is one of the first of its kind in North America to incorporate a substantial amount of PCR content in a flexible plastic bag for direct food contact.
This packaging bag is manufactured using polyethylene resin that incorporates 30 percent PCR plastic. PCR plastic is derived from used consumer plastics that are collected, processed and then converted into a new form of resin. The use of PCR resin decreases the dependence on virgin plastic and promotes plastic recyclability. It also helps to keep plastic waste out of landfills and oceans. Notable, the PCR resin used in packaging bags is safe for food contact. This has been independently confirmed by SCS Global Services to adhere to rigorous requirements for recycled plastic in contact with food items.
This partnership combines the skills of a flexible packaging converter with the scale of a bakery brand. St. Johns Packaging provided the PCR resin material and facilitated its incorporation into existing bread bag packaging lines. Bimbo Bakeries U.S commercialized the product through its broad retail distribution channels. Retailers started selling bread in the PCR bags in January, making it possible for consumers to purchase an essential item with reduced plastic impact. This new product also serves as a strong signal to the food industry that PCR plastic packaging is transitioning from pilot lines to mainstream commercialization.
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