Innovation Zone

ThePackHub Innovation Zone Snapshot

Welcome to this week’s Innovation Zone snapshot from ThePackHub.
ThePackHub collates more than 1,000 new packaging innovations a year for our Innovation Zone database. We now have 5,478 searchable initiatives listed. We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

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#1 Beauty company develops refillable toothpaste dispenser

The Innovation Zone has documented several businesses switching to refillable and reusable packaging as a sustainable alternative to recyclable packs. Yet another example of a change of this kind is claimed to be a ‘world first’ from UK beauty product company Happier Beauty. The business has developed a refillable toothpaste dispenser, made from a combination of aluminium and recycled plastic, refilled by biodegradable refill capsules. The brand has previously developed fully recyclable aluminium toothpaste tubes, but now is moving to a refillable format. Consumers will be sent the refillable dispenser and subsequently the refill capsules as part of the subscription service offered by the company.

 

#2 Patented paper cushion technology makes for sustainable alternative to plastic

British packaging company HexcelPack have launched a fully biodegradable and curbside-recyclable protective barrier made from paper, under the brand name Hexcel’ope. Using the company’s patented slit paper technology to expand the PEFC-certified paper into a three dimensional rigid cushion, the protection offers a strong and sustainable alternative to plastic-based bubble envelopes, which are notoriously difficult to recycle. Many companies are working on paper-based solutions for this reason. This answer is most suitable for e-commerce, as it provides the necessary protection for the delivery and shipment of fragile products.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#3 Ergonomic PET jar is easier to handle

Shinoda Alimentos is one of Brazil’s largest producer of eggs and egg-based products. It has announced the development of a new packaging format for its Albu Protein food supplement line with FuturePack. The new pack is a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) jar, supplied by Moltec, which replaces the previous stand-up pouch format. The new pack is designed to appeal to its main target audiences, of people over 50 who consume albumin, and gym-goers. The unique shape of the new PET jar was designed to make it stand out on shelf and has ergonomic ribbing on the sidewalls that facilitate handling. It also has a wide mouth to enable the consumer to easily dispense the product with a spoon or scoop. The clear jar enables the consumer to see the product easily and is suitable for reuse. The stand-up pouch will still be available but as a refill pack.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Nanofilm extends banana shelf life

In a joint venture, EMPA (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) and Lidl Switzerland have brought a protective fruit and vegetable coating to market. The all-natural coating has been extensively tested and in trials has been proved to extend the shelf life of bananas by more than a week. The nanofibre film coating is made by processing pomace into fibrillated cellulose. Pomace is the solid residue left over after extracting the juice from fruit, vegetables or plants. Traditionally, this leftover material was disposed of in biogas plants or directly on the field but it is hoped that it will be used to create protective coatings in the future. The nanofibre film protection is sprayed onto the product and, since it is harmless to consumers, the solution can be washed off before consumption. The aim is for the new technology to be used in all 150 Lidl stores throughout Switzerland following the successful main trial.

 

Packaging question of the week

Are you more optimistic for your business in the year ahead compared to this time last year? Vote and comment on LinkedIn now. 

Last week, 87% think there will be more innovation in the packaging industry in 2022 compared to last year. See votes and comments here.

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