Fonterra Adopts Recycle-Ready Packaging for Shredded Cheese Products

Fonterra Oceania has partnered with Amcor to introduce a recyclable packaging solution for its shredded cheese products. The new packaging, known as AmPrima recycle-ready film, is now being used across both retail and foodservice sectors in Australia. This move aligns with Fonterra's sustainability goals by enhancing recyclability while maintaining product quality.

The AmPrima packaging features the 'Check Locally' logo from the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) program, aiding consumers in making informed recycling decisions. Rosie Cotter, Fonterra Oceania's sustainability general manager, emphasized that this transition supports their commitment to sustainable packaging.

Amcor's AmPrima film replaces traditional materials like PET or PVDC with a single-material polyethylene film, designed to withstand the rigorous demands of high-speed packing lines. This innovative solution helps maintain food safety standards and sealing properties without altering existing production processes.

According to Phil Van Houts, R&D director at Amcor Flexibles Asia Pacific and ANZ, the new packaging solution addresses the technical challenges of shredded cheese packaging, offering strong pack integrity and high barrier performance.

The introduction of this packaging is expected to remove an estimated 270 tonnes of non-recyclable material from the Australian market annually, marking a significant step forward in Fonterra's environmental initiatives.

Amcor's collaboration with Fonterra highlights a broader trend towards sustainable packaging solutions within the dairy industry, reflecting increased consumer and regulatory focus on environmental impact.