Tetra Pak, Lactalis launch recycled-polymer aseptic carton in sustainability push

UK – Tetra Pak, in collaboration with dairy giant Lactalis, has introduced an aseptic carton pack that utilizes recycled polymers, marking a significant step in sustainable packaging.

This innovation was unveiled as part of a commitment to addressing environmental concerns and reducing reliance on virgin, fossil-based materials.

The new carton pack, made from ISCC PLUS-certified material, is sourced from used drink cartons that are recycled in Spain.

It is currently used to package a range of Lactalis Iberia Puleva milk products, such as calcium skimmed, semi-skimmed, whole, and lactose-free milk.

Marco Marchetti, Vice President of Packaging Materials at Tetra Pak, highlighted the importance of using recycled polymers in the plastic components of the packaging.

He also pointed out that the sustainable mass balance attribution principle ensures that the recycled content is tracked throughout the supply chain. This development comes as consumer concerns about plastic waste continue to rise.

According to Tetra Pak’s research, 78% of consumers are increasingly worried about the environmental impact of plastic.

By addressing these concerns, the companies not only meet consumer demand but also further their sustainability goals.

Although consumers cannot directly track the recycled content in individual cartons, the mass balance approach provides assurance that the recycled materials are properly managed within the supply chain.

The collaboration between Tetra Pak and Lactalis is a response to the growing global movement toward reducing the use of virgin, fossil-based materials in packaging.

Tetra Pak has committed to investing €100 million annually over the next decade to improve its environmental packaging profile, while Lactalis has made responsible packaging a priority.

The recycled polymers used in the new packaging are sourced from cartons that are collected and processed in Spain.

This process involves paper mills such as SAICA and ALIER, which extract paper fibers and then convert the residual materials into new plastic products.

Tetra Pak continues to invest in innovative solutions aimed at overcoming packaging challenges, including alternatives to aluminum barriers and increasing the availability of renewable materials.

While the recycling industry still faces challenges, particularly with the limited availability of food-grade recycled plastics, the focus on chemical recycling offers hope for achieving a circular economy.