Sway R&D Polybags & Handle Bags
We’re offering a limited batch of research & development bags at special pricing. These early prototypes didn’t fully meet our specifications but are still fully functional and great for most lightweight packaging needs.
You may notice a few quirks:
- No adhesive strip on polybag (unless noted)
- Minor creases, size variations, or light seam marks
- Strength suitable for items under 1 lb
Because these bags are part of our ongoing innovation journey, they’re available at 20–30% off our standard unprinted pricing — a rare chance to support sustainable packaging progress and make use of perfectly good materials that might otherwise go unused.
Made with Seaweed
Made from regenerative, renewable, and certified compostable ingredients
Compostable
Industrial Compostable (TUV Austria, Home certification pending)
Translucent
Translucent material allows for easy barcode scanning and product visibility (6-7% opacity)
Moisture-resistant
Can withstand some moisture, such as humidity and exposure to rain in transit.
Manufactured in USA
With globally sourced seaweed inputs.
Our Partner
In partnership with Sway, a biomaterial innovation company.
Start Your Order
Specifications
| Material | Made from seaweed, plants, and home compostable polymers. All ingredients are regenerative, renewable, or home compostable. The material is over 50% biobased content and constantly improving. |
| Recycled Content | None |
| Certifications | Industrial Compostable (TUV Austria, Home certification pending) |
| Thickness | 2 - 2.5 mil |
| Material Features | • Color: Cream to golden • Clarity: Translucent (barcode scannable) • Texture: Soft, flexible, natural • Printable & heat sealable • Strong & durable • Oil & grease resistant • Moisture resistant |
| Functionality | Durable and lightweight, this bag protects goods in transit from production to your customer's doorstep. |
| End-of-Life | Designed to decompose in home and industrial compost, pending certification from TUV Austria. Individuals who do not have access to composting should landfill these bags. |
| Origin | Manufactured in the USA |
| Bag Color | Natural cream to light golden tint |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a sample of this bag?
Yes - contact our team to request a sample.
What is this bag made with?
This film is made with at least 50% TPSea™ : a game-changing resin developed by Sway that is certified 100% biobased and predominantly made with responsibly sourced seaweed. The remaining balance of the film is made with compostable polymers that provides added strength. This bag is already breaking boundaries, but it is just the beginning as Sway continuously works to increase seaweed and biobased content!
What is this bag made for?
Sway Polybags and Die Cut Handle Bags are durable, protective, lightweight, and designed to protect goods in transit from production to your doorstep. While this bag performs like plastic, it lasts only as long as it's needed, returning to nature through home or industrial composting.
Currently, they are best suited to package dry items like apparel, outdoor gear, personal care, accessories, and home goods.
Currently, they are best suited to package dry items like apparel, outdoor gear, personal care, accessories, and home goods.
Why seaweed?
Seaweed is a regenerative marine crop that contains natural polymers, the building blocks of Sway’s material portfolio. Compared to common renewable packaging inputs like corn, potato, or sugarcane, the benefits of seaweed truly go above and beyond!
Unlike terrestrial crops farmed through conventional agriculture systems, seaweed thrives off sunlight and seawater, requiring low to no inputs. It’s abundant, fast-growing, space-efficient, and available on nearly every coastline. Seaweed can also generate a lot of good as it grows: increasing habitat for marine life, boosting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change impacts like ocean acidification and erosion. Plus, new science suggests that seaweed can sequester substantial amounts of carbon.
Unlike terrestrial crops farmed through conventional agriculture systems, seaweed thrives off sunlight and seawater, requiring low to no inputs. It’s abundant, fast-growing, space-efficient, and available on nearly every coastline. Seaweed can also generate a lot of good as it grows: increasing habitat for marine life, boosting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change impacts like ocean acidification and erosion. Plus, new science suggests that seaweed can sequester substantial amounts of carbon.
Can this bag package food?
While fashion and outdoor gear brands currently use the Sway Polybag and Die Cut Handle Bags, food packaging is a north star for Sway! The material used in these products is called TPSea Flex™ and is made with components recognized as safe (GRAS) or FDA-approved for food-contact use. Sway is validating compliance with safety, barrier, and migration testing and will share this data as it's gathered.
How do I seal the polybags?
The 14" x 15.75" polybag size has an adhesive strip. The other sizes require a sticker to seal the bag. We’ve tested a variety of stickers and recommend our Zero Waste (ZW) paper, Zero Waste (ZW) laminated, or the Standard Kraft Sheets. Order these stickers here.
What is the shelf life?
Based on our experience to date, these bags have a shelf life of 18 months when stored in cool, dry conditions. With continued shelf-life testing, we will soon have more rigorous testing on this question.
Is this bag moisture-resistant?
Moisture-resistant—yes; waterproof—no. These bags can withstand some moisture (think humidity and exposure to rain in transit), but they are not waterproof or suited to package moist/perishable items.
Will people know this bag is made with seaweed?
With each case comes an equal amount of complimentary printed cards that ensure your customers understand this innovative seaweed offering.