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#1 Fully recycled PET bottles switch saves 1,500 tonnes of virgin plastic
Unilever brand Hellmann’s is making the transition to 100% post-consumer recycled PET for its range of squeezable mayonnaise products. Unilever states that the packaging change will save almost 1,500 tonnes of plastic every year once the full range of products has made the change. The full switch to recycled PET is expected by the end of 2022, with 40% of the range already being made from the recycled material. The bottles can also be easily recycled again once the consumer has finished with the product. The new packaging gives clear details on the front that the bottle is made from100% recycled content.
#2 New liquid container dispenses predetermined amounts
DeJonge Associates, Florida-based pharmaceutical packaging design specialists, have launched a new patented liquid container for dispensing predetermined amounts of liquid. The quantity to be dispensed can be adjusted using markings on the container’s chamber. The consumer removes the protective overcap to reveal the dosage chamber. The bottle is squeezed to fill the chamber with the required amount, which is held in place by a one-way non-return system. The bottle is then squeezed again to dispense the medicine. The unique feature of the design means that orientation is unimportant, and the pack can be used in any position from horizontal to completely inverted, with the pack still managing to dispense the correct amount of liquid. Although initially seen as suitable for medicines for babies and young children, it also has other potential uses where accurate dosing is required in the pharmaceutical and health and beauty sectors.
More info in The Innovation Zone.
#3 Plastic multipack shrink film switch to recyclable board alternative
Spanish beer manufacturer Estrella Damm have collaborated with board and paper specialists and Innovation Zone members Graphic Packaging International (GPI) to replace all of its plastic shrink film packaging on their multipack cans with a recyclable board alternative. The unique pack design was designed internally by GPI and features rounded corners which is hoped will give the pack a greater stand-out instore. The move will save the equivalent of 99 tonnes of plastic per annum. The design of the pack holds the cans tightly which protects the cans as they progress through the supply chain. As part of the move, Graphic Packaging have also supplied two of their QuikFlex™ closing machines which are capable of packing 6, 12 or 24 can packs and feature a number of opening features.
More info in The Innovation Zone.
#4 Body wash sachet is water soluble and will dissolve during showering
California based personal-care brand Plus Products have launched a new body wash product that comprises a dehydrated square in a sachet that becomes foam when water is added. Also, the sachet is water-soluble and can be dropped onto the floor of the shower and will dissolve in the water. The sachets come in a bioplastic zippered bag which is home or industrially compostable, and so is the mailing bag the sachets arrive in. The brand claims to reduce water usage by 38% during the production of the squares, and due to the letter-like packaging, the weight reduction means a reduction of 80% in CO2 emissions during shipping. Currently, the cost is $16.50 (£11.84) for 16 sachets, which is acknowledged as relatively high compared to conventional products. However, they hope to be able to reduce the price as sales grow.
More info in The Innovation Zone.
Watch our latest ThePackhub Expert Interview
Ian Beresford, Head of Marketing & Development of Essentra Tapes discusses their recent consumer research results that highlights some of packaging’s frustrations and delights as well as delving into the company’s range of tapes that Open, Close, Inform and Protect.
Packaging question of the week
Unilever recently conducted research which found that 84% of over 2,000 people polled had found that being at home more during the pandemic had highlighted the volume of plastic waste generated in their homes.
Will this make a difference to the amount of plastic used in the future? Vote and comment now.
Last time, 38% believe major retailers will roll out refillable in the next 1-2 years.
Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.
Until next time. Happy innovating.
