Riverside Natural Foods has collaborated with Amcor to introduce Riverside's MadeGood Trail Mix bars in Amcor’s AmFiber paper-based packaging solution.
This packaging reportedly marks a first in the category, offering kerbside recyclability in the paper stream. The launch coincides with Earth Month to further emphasise sustainability.
Amcor’s AmFiber solution is a paper-based laminate crafted from Forest Stewardship Council-certified fibres, replacing traditional plastic wrappers.
This new packaging is claimed to reduce the use of virgin plastic by 77%, providing an alternative to standard bar wraps.
It has also been verified by the US' Western Michigan University, meeting the repulpability standards required for effective recycling.
Amcor’s research and development team and Riverside Natural Foods collaborated closely to ensure the packaging met both the brand’s and consumers' requirements.
Amcor Flexibles North America marketing director Desmond VanHouten said: “The partnership of Amcor and Riverside Natural Foods pairs two industry leaders in sustainability to deliver an innovative package that is How2Recycle-certified and easy for consumers to recycle anywhere.”
To further assess consumer response, Riverside Natural Foods and Amcor conducted an independent home usage study.
The research showed that 79% of participants felt the new packaging was ‘somewhat better’ or ‘much better’ than typical granola bar wrappers.
Additionally, 79% of consumers stated they would choose this product over a competitor that does not offer recyclable packaging.
Riverside Natural Foods co-founder and sourcing, procurement, and impact director Salma Fotovat said: “At Riverside Natural Foods, we are continuously letting our curiosity guide us and ask ourselves - how can we take the next best step forward toward a more sustainable future?
“For us, this was innovating a category-first paper package for our consumers to enjoy while minimising the impact on the planet. We are so proud to achieve this with our partners at Amcor.”
Last month, Amcor launched the AmFiber stand-up pouch for instant coffee and dry beverages.
