Tetra Pak has received the ‘Resource Efficiency’ Award at the Sustainable Packaging News Awards 2024, for its paper-based barrier material innovation. The awards recognize the most innovative advancements in sustainable packaging over the past year. Lactogal and Tetra Pak launched the aseptic carton package with a paper-based barrier, marking a breakthrough in sustainable packaging innovation.
A world-first in the carton packaging industry, the paper-based barrier when combined with plant-based polymers, reduces the carbon footprint of aseptic food packaging by up to one-third while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and performance. The carbon reduction achievement has been verified by the Carbon Trust.
As global food systems call for low-carbon renewable materials, the packaging industry is seeking alternatives to the aluminum foil layer. That represents an excellent source of food protection against oxygen and light. Replacing this layer with a paper-based barrier increases the paperboard content in Tetra Pak cartons from an average of 70% to approximately 80%, earning the resource efficiency award. This innovation reduces the package’s carbon footprint. When combined with plant-based polymers, the paper-based barrier increases the total share of renewable content of an aseptic carton by up to 90%.
“We are honored to accept this award from Sustainable Packaging News for our paper-based barrier material innovation. This award highlights our commitment to customer-driven innovation by harnessing the power of paper to achieve renewability, recyclability, and carbon reduction while safeguarding food safety. We are proud to collaborate with customers, suppliers, and partners on our journey to transform food systems for a low-carbon future. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of sustainable packaging that protects both food and the planet.”
Marco Marchetti, Vice President Packaging Materials, Sales and Distribution Solutions, Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is known for its aseptic packaging technology, which allows perishable products like milk and juices to be stored without refrigeration for extended periods. Tetra Pak offers a comprehensive range of processing equipment, packaging solutions, and services tailored to the food and beverage industry.