Tetra Pak has announced a significant breakthrough in sustainable packaging technology, launching the world’s first paper-based barrier for juice packaging.
Developed in collaboration with Spanish beverage producer García Carrión, the innovation replaces the traditional aluminium foil layer commonly found in aseptic cartons with a renewable alternative. The technology is designed to maintain critical protection against oxygen, light, moisture, and bacteria, ensuring food safety and shelf life remain comparable to conventional packaging.
Technical Specifications and Sustainability Profile
The new technology makes its debut in the Tetra Brik Aseptic 200ml Slim Leaf carton, which is currently rolling out across select markets.
Renewable Content: The package is constructed with up to 80% paper. When combined with plant-based polymers, the renewable content reaches an impressive 92%.
Carbon Reduction: Verified by the Carbon Trust, the solution achieves a 43% reduction in carbon footprint compared to standard aseptic packs relying on aluminium and fossil-based polymers.
Recyclability: Designed for recyclability, the packaging facilitates collection and sorting in existing infrastructure, aiming to improve recycling process efficiency by maximizing the recovery of paper content.
Strategic Partnership
The launch is a cornerstone of García Carrión's "360° Sustainability Strategy," an initiative recently recognized with the Factories of the Future Award 2024 for Excellence in Sustainability and Circular Economy.
Don José García Carrión, president of García Carrión, commented on the collaboration: “We are proud to lead the way in sustainable packaging for the juice category. For more than 135 years, García Carrión has been committed to responsible innovation and respect for the environment. This development supports our mission to reduce environmental impact while offering high-quality products to our consumers.”
Industry Impact
The move represents a broader industry shift away from fossil-based materials in barrier technologies.
Tatiana Liceti, Executive Vice President of Packaging Solutions at Tetra Pak, stated: “This launch represents a significant step in our journey towards fully renewable and recyclable packaging. By working closely with our customers, we’re proving that sustainable innovation can scale across markets and categories, while ensuring packaging retains its functionality and quality.”
Tetra Pak Unveils 'World First' Paper-Based Barrier Technology for Juice Market
