Tetra Pak has collaborated with Lactalis to introduce a carton package that incorporates certified recycled polymers derived from used beverage cartons.

This material has received ISCC PLUS certification, confirming its origins from the recycling process of used beverage cartons collected in Spain.

The mass balance attribution method ensures that while the certified recycled polymers are mixed with virgin fossil feedstock, the equivalent volume of recycled material is sourced and tracked throughout the supply chain, as verified by an independent third-party auditor in line with the ISCC Chain of Custody Procedure.

The chemical recycling process employed guarantees that the use of certified recycled polymers does not affect the quality or safety of the packaging, nor any other characteristics, thus demonstrating the potential for cartons to be fully circular.

Tetra Pak has committed to annually investing €100m over the next five to ten years to support this initiative.

Tetra Pak packaging materials, sales and distribution solutions vice-president Marco Marchetti said: “Increasing the usage of renewable and recycled resources in packaging is critical if we are to help food and beverage producers realise material circularity, turning waste into new resources and lowering reliance on virgin, fossil-based materials.

“To scale up the adoption of certified recycled polymers in food packaging, we need collective action across the entire system and enabling legislation.”

Lactalis has started implementing this innovation by using these new cartons for its Puleva dairy product range in Spain.

The company packaged its semi-skimmed, calcium-skimmed, whole and lactose-free milk in Tetra Brik Aseptic 1000 Slim cartons that feature the HeliCap 23 Pro closure.

It plans to extend this packaging solution across its dairy product lines progressively. 

The introduction of the new carton comes as global consumer demand for sustainable packaging is on the rise, with many adapting their purchasing habits accordingly.

Research by Tetra Pak indicates that 78% of consumers are showing concern regarding the environmental impact of plastic waste.

In June, Tetra Pak reported a 47% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within its operations since 2019.