Marigold Health Foods and Sonoco have joined forces to introduce a new fully recyclable packaging solution, emphasizing a shift towards sustainability in the packaging industry. The innovative packaging, designed for various natural, plant-based food items like stock cubes, sauces, and meat substitutes, boasts a can body comprising 95% paper, primarily sourced from recycled materials, with 60% post-consumer recycled fiber content. This eco-friendly approach aims to tackle the recycling challenges posed by the previous packaging, which featured a cardboard body with a metal base.
The new packaging incorporates an inner liner for product protection, ensuring consumer safety and product integrity. Notably, Marigold has invested in new machinery to replace the metal end with a paper-based alternative developed by Sonoco, resulting in an all-paper body and base that can be conveniently recycled by consumers through kerbside recycling programs. This transition aligns with the evolving packaging and recycling regulations in the UK and Europe, underscoring the commitment to environmental stewardship.
In addition to enhancing recyclability, the new packaging design prioritizes food safety and shelf-life performance by incorporating an oxygen and moisture barrier. Marigold highlights a significant reduction in packaging weight, leading to decreased transport fuel consumption, thereby lowering the overall environmental impact. The utilization of sustainably sourced recyclable materials further reinforces the eco-conscious approach adopted by the companies.
This initiative mirrors broader industry trends towards sustainable packaging solutions. ProAmpac, for instance, has introduced a fiber-based, kerbside recyclable alternative to traditional plastic films, catering to products like bathroom tissue and paper towels. Similarly, Welton, Bibby & Baron have repurposed Mondi’s thin barrier paper into premium bags for fresh bread products, emphasizing recyclability and performance in protecting food items from external elements.
The adoption of recyclable paper-based packaging signifies a pivotal shift towards eco-friendly practices in the packaging sector. By embracing sustainable alternatives and investing in innovative solutions, companies like Marigold and Sonoco are setting a precedent for the industry, showcasing the feasibility and benefits of transitioning towards more environmentally conscious packaging choices. This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, heralding a new era of packaging innovation and eco-conscious consumer choices.
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