At a time when the world is starting to reckon with the environmental cost of plastic, one industry stands out for its overdependence on it. From takeaway meals to food storage, plastic has been the go-to material for packaging in the food sector. Initially seen as a convenient solution, it has now morphed into a global crisis. It leaches harmful chemicals into our food, piles up in our oceans, and creates mountains of waste that will outlast us by centuries.

As we face the devastating consequences of this plastic overload, the question is no longer if we can change, but how fast we can begin. One Kolkata-based company is stepping up to bring about that change. Pepcom Private Limited is replacing single-use plastic with eco-friendly, paper-based packaging that is just as effective but far safer for both the environment and the food industry.

“We wanted to solve a problem that affects both the environment and human health. Plastic packaging is harmful, but the food industry needs practical solutions. We needed to create something that worked and was safe, sustainable, and effective for the industry,” says Sagnik Mukherjee (38), the company’s founder and CEO. Sanjoy Banerjee, a close neighbour and long-time friend, also decided to join hands with him.

From boardrooms to green dreams: How two professionals decided to take a step

Before starting their packaging startup, the co-founders had spent decades in different corporate roles. Sagnik worked at Mahindra Automotive Sales & Service for around 17 years, while Sanjoy was at Hero MotoCorp. Even though they were successful in their respective careers, they were always deeply concerned about the environment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they decided to quit their jobs and pursue a venture aligned with their values.

“During the pandemic, we saw a huge rise in demand for sustainable alternatives, especially in food packaging,” Sagnik tells The Better India. “But there weren’t many practical solutions available, and we saw an opportunity to step in and make a real impact.”

And so, in 2022, Pepcom India was born, an eco-friendly packaging company determined to offer a viable alternative to plastic in the food industry. The company began sales in September 2023 after studying the market thoroughly.

© The Better India