Tetra Pak, in collaboration with Lactalis, has introduced a new packaging solution that incorporates certified recycled polymers sourced from used beverage cartons.
The newly developed packaging is the first of its kind in the beverage carton industry, using recycled materials linked to cartons processed in Spain.
The recycled content is certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS, ensuring that the quality and safety of the packaging remain uncompromised. This certification process employs a mass balance attribution method, which tracks the recycled materials throughout the supply chain, verifying their origin and sustainability.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on virgin, fossil-based materials in packaging, addressing increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices from brands.
Joël Llovera, purchasing director of Lactalis Iberia, said: “Our collaboration with Tetra Pak reflects a shared vision for sustainability, facilitated by circular economy principles. Transitioning from fossil-based to recycled polymers is a significant step toward our environmental objectives.”
Tetra Pak is investing €100 million annually for the next five to ten years to enhance the sustainability of its packaging solutions.
Marco Marchetti, vice president of packaging materials at Tetra Pak, commented: “Increasing the usage of renewable and recycled resources in packaging is critical if we are to help food and beverage producers realise material circularity, turning waste into new resources and lowering reliance on virgin, fossil-based materials”.
He continued: “To scale up the adoption of certified recycled polymers in food packaging, we need collective action across the entire system and enabling legislation. Scientists, policymakers, recyclers, industry players and others must work together to turn challenges into opportunities, as shown by our world-first introduction with Lactalis.”
The new packaging will initially be used for Lactalis’s Puleva dairy range in Spain, which includes various milk products such as calcium skimmed, semi-skimmed, whole and lactose-free options. Following this launch, Lactalis aims to broaden the range of dairy products uses certified recycled polymers, responding to consumer preferences for sustainable packaging solutions.
According to Tetra Pak research, 78% of consumers express concern over the environmental impact of plastic waste, with nearly a third indicating they have increased their purchases of products packaged in recycled materials over the past year.
by Sian Yates
Source: foodbev.com
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