A new carton packaging solution from Tetra Pak and Lactalis incorporates certified recycled polymers derived from used beverage cartons into their dairy products. This initiative aims to lessen the industry's dependence on limited, fossil-based virgin materials.

Source: PackagingEurope

Reportedly a first for the beverage carton sector, ISCC PLUS has certified that this material originates from the recycling of used beverage cartons in Spain.

The packaging utilizes a mass balance approach, combining recycled and virgin fossil feedstock. The volume of recycled material is sourced and tracked throughout the supply chain, verified by a third-party auditor, in accordance with the ISCC Chain of Custody Procedure.

Since the material undergoes chemical recycling, Tetra Pak and Lactalis assert that the polymers do not compromise the quality, food safety, or any functional attributes of the carton.

Our collaboration with Tetra Pak is rooted in a shared vision and commitment to environmental stewardship for future generations, facilitated by circular economy principles. Packaging innovation plays a crucial role in this endeavour. 

Consequently, Lactalis' Puleva dairy range—including calcium skimmed, semi-skimmed, whole, and lactose-free milk—will be packaged in Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Slim cartons with the HeliCap 23 Pro closure.

This advancement is expected to keep high-quality resources in circulation while aiding the transition away from virgin, fossil-based materials.

We are dedicated to sustainable progress. Transitioning from fossil-based polymers to recycled ones, certified by ISCC PLUS as linked to used beverage cartons, represents a significant stride towards our objective.

Looking ahead, Lactalis plans to progressively introduce packaging containing certified recycled polymers into its other dairy products.

Both companies highlight their dedication to sustainability. Tetra Pak aims to invest €100 million annually in sustainability efforts over the next five to ten years, while Lactalis prioritizes responsible packaging, the circular economy, and decarbonization of its operations by 2050.

Additionally, Tetra Pak references its research indicating that 78% of consumers are worried about the environmental effects of plastic waste, with 29% stating they have purchased more products packaged in recycled materials in the past year.

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.

This announcement follows last year’s partnership between Tetra Pak and Stora Enso, where the companies invested €29 million to establish a new recycling line for post-consumer beverage cartons in Ostrołęka, Poland. The facility, upon commencing operations, anticipated tripling the country’s annual recycling capacity for beverage cartons.

More recently, Bonafarm’s Sole-Mizo has adopted SIG’s SIG MidiBloc and SIG MidiFit carton packs for its extended shelf life and ultra-high temperature milk products. These packs are designed for drip-free pouring, easy opening and closing, and can be stored vertically or horizontally, being filled with SIG’s Midi 12 Aseptic filling machine.