In a significant move towards sustainability, Mondelēz International is transforming its classic purple Cadbury packaging by adopting 80 percent certified recycled plastic for its sharing bar range in the UK and Ireland. This initiative will help wrap approximately 300 million bars each year, paving the way for a greener future.

Source: NewFoodMagazine

A Major Update in Packaging History

This bold change, which is already making its way onto store shelves, marks one of the most important packaging updates in Cadbury's history. The revamped wrappers will include popular products like Cadbury Dairy Milk, Fruit & Nut, and Caramel, ensuring they are encased in more sustainable materials while maintaining their iconic appearance and cherished flavor.

We’re so proud to be taking this big next step with Cadbury. We know that sustainability is important to consumers, so by moving to 80 percent certified recycled plastic  – and wrapping more than 300 million bars this year – we’re not only helping to give flexible plastic a second life, but also helping Cadbury fans enjoy their favourite snacks, knowing they’re doing something positive for the planet.

^{Joanna Dias, Mondelez UK’s Sustainability Lead}

Advanced Recycling Technology at Work

The new packaging utilizes advanced recycling technology that transforms used plastic into food-grade flexible film. Although the wrappers are not entirely composed of recycled materials, Cadbury employs a mass balance method certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC). This guarantees an annual allocation of 600 tonnes of post-consumer recycled plastic, equivalent to the weight of 40 double-decker buses.

Part of a Larger Strategy

This initiative is a crucial element of Mondelēz International's global “Pack Light and Right” strategy, which aims to significantly reduce the use of virgin plastic while increasing the recycled content across its brand offerings.

The first products to showcase the new packaging will be Cadbury Dairy Milk Caramel 120g, Fruit and Nut 180g, and Dairy Milk 360g, with the company aiming for complete implementation across all sharing bars in the UK and Ireland by the end of 2025.