Berry Global has rolled out 100% recycled plastic packaging for the confectionery giant Mars.
It has created pantry jars for treats such as M&M’S, Skittles and Starburst.
The updated pantry jars, now available across the US, are made entirely from recycled plastic, excluding the lids.
This transition builds upon the previous version of the jars, which contained 15% recycled plastic and were launched in 2022.
These jars come in three sizes: 60, 81 and 87 ounces, and are widely recyclable.
The switch to 100% recycled plastic utilises mechanically processed recycled content, which is expected to reduce the use of virgin plastic by more than 1,300mt annually.
The use of post-consumer resin, sourced from kerbside recycling programmes, for the jars not only diverts plastic waste from landfills but also lessens the reliance on new plastic production and cuts emissions.
Produced at Berry’s manufacturing facility, the “easy-grip” square jars are made with certified food-grade mechanically recycled resin.
Berry’s expertise in material science and technical resources was instrumental in collaborating with Mars to achieve their shared sustainability objectives without compromising the quality of the product.
Berry Global consumer packaging North America division food, beverage and spirits vice-president Peter Goshorn stated: “As companies across the globe commit to transitioning to a circular economy, the ability to deliver products made with recycled materials at scale is crucial.
“That’s why we’re collaborating with leading brands, like Mars, to significantly increase the use of recycled content to drive responsible business growth without compromising performance or aesthetics.”
As part of its sustainable packaging plan, Mars has been working to redesign its packaging portfolio.
It aims to reduce plastic use and ensure that all its packaging is reusable, recyclable or compostable.
Since 2017, Mars has been collaborating with Berry to drive innovation in sustainable packaging.
Mars is redesigning 12,000 packaging components with the help of hundreds of its own associates and through partnerships with organisations such as Berry.
