As brands look to reduce their carbon footprint and increase trust with consumers, they are tapping into growing demand for environmental and moral responsibility. In the food and beverage space, responsibility revolves around brand transparency, plant-based ingredients, but above all – hygienic packaging that is eco-friendly.

Educational On-Pack Language

Forward-leaning brands are currently exploring carbon reporting by dedicating front panel space to the claim, and then further helping consumers understand what it means. Brands that can tie their responsible features seamlessly into their product identity will create a lasting impression.

(Left) Upfield has introduced on-pack carbon labeling to 100 million packs of its dairy and plant-based margarines and spreads by the year-end 2021.

(Right) Planet Protein ditched their plastic scoop and created a zero-waste packaging program to ensure waste doesn’t enter the landfills or oceans. Every bag saves the equivalent of 2 animal lives, 55 square feet of forest, 40 lbs. of CO2, 70 lbs. of grain, and 2,000 gallons of water.

Plant-Based Boom

Consumers are prioritizing health, which means they are hyperaware of both quality, origin, and functional benefits of ingredients in their products. They want assurance the ingredients are being sourced responsibly and are actively looking for brands that promote sustainability throughout their supply chain. As such, there is growing favor for veganism and vegetarian choices food and beverages, giving rise to products made from plant-based alternatives.

(Left) Holy Moly vegan shakes are a collection of plant-based “nut-shakes” made from a blend of raw, unpasteurized almond milk, and fresh fruit, packaged in a tamper-evident PET bottle.

(Right) Morning Star vegetable chicken nuggets are made from plant-based alternatives. The veggie nuggets are packaged in a resealable stand-up flexible bag.

Safely Sustainable

Brands are finding ways to bring safety and sustainability together with new packaging materials. If the packaging is one-time use, the materials should be easily recyclable. And if the package is to be reused, it should be sturdy enough to withstand high-temperature cleaning and increased shipping touch points.

(Left) Mars Food announced the launch of its all-polypropylene (PP) flexible packaging for its one-time use microwavable rice pouch. The mono-material film is designed for improved recyclability.

(Right) In partnership with Loop, Häagen-Dazs has launched a reusable stainless-steel ice cream canister. Once finished with the product, consumers ship their containers back to Loop to be fully sanitized and refilled.

Where to Start?

The primary role of any package is to preserve and protect the product, but there are many ways to address these needs with responsible packaging choices. TricorBraun is here to help our customers navigate their unique sustainability goals to provide the right packaging solution for their brand.

For more information on packaging solutions for food and beverage products, contact us.