Tetra Pak and Lactalis Pioneer Aseptic Carton Using Recycled Polymers
Tetra Pak, the leading multinational packaging company, has partnered with dairy giant Lactalis to introduce an innovative aseptic carton pack made from certified recycled polymers. This significant development represents a breakthrough in material sourcing and processing for the beverage carton industry.
Innovative Material Sourcing
The newly unveiled carton pack utilizes ISCC PLUS-certified material, sourced from used drink cartons recycled in Spain. It is now being used to package the Lactalis Iberia Puleva range of milk products, including calcium skimmed, semi-skimmed, whole, and lactose-free milk.
Marco Marchetti, Tetra Pak's Vice President of Packaging Materials, emphasized the use of recycled polymers in all plastic components of the packaging structure, remarking on the sustainable mass balance attribution principle that tracks the recycled content throughout the supply chain.
Consumer and Environmental Impact
The introduction of this packaging addresses growing consumer concerns over plastic waste. According to Tetra Pak's research, 78% of shoppers are worried about the environmental impact of plastic. This advancement not only responds to consumer demands but also aligns with both Tetra Pak and Lactalis's sustainability goals.
While consumers cannot directly track the recycled content in individual cartons, the mass balance approach offers assurance that the recycled materials are effectively managed along the supply chain.
Challenges and Industry Commitment
Tetra Pak and Lactalis's efforts align with global movements towards reducing reliance on virgin, fossil-based materials. Tetra Pak is investing €100 million annually over the next decade to enhance its environmental packaging profile, while Lactalis prioritizes responsible packaging.
The recycled polymers originate from cartons collected and processed in Spain, with the process involving paper mills such as SAICA and ALIER. After extracting paper fibers, the residual materials are transformed into new plastic products.
Future Prospects in Sustainable Packaging
Tetra Pak continues to push industry boundaries, investing in innovative solutions to overcome packaging challenges, including developing alternatives to aluminum barriers and increasing the availability of renewable materials.
Although the recycling industry faces hurdles, such as limited availability of food-grade recycled plastics, the emphasis on chemical recycling provides a promising avenue for achieving a circular economy.
This advancement not only represents a major step towards sustainable packaging but also highlights the need for industry-wide collaboration and governmental support to fully realize the potential of recycled materials in packaging.
