The aim of the strategic partnership between the two companies is the sustainable design of small, individual packaging sizes for various Mars Wrigley brands. Initial development work has now started in North America. The focus is particularly on markets such as China and India, where recycling infrastructures are currently still underdeveloped. The first packaged Skittles brand products are expected for the US market towards the end of the year or in early 2022.
„Companies have a great responsibility to reduce packaging waste. With the Danimer Scientific partnership, we are breaking new ground to test concepts for a seamless circular economy. Not only for Mars Wrigley, but also for the entire industry.“ Laurence Etienne, Managing Director Mars Wrigley Germany
Danimer Scientific's bio-based packaging, Nodax polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), is produced by Natural fermentation processes produced using vegetable oils such as soya and rapeseed. It biodegrades completely in the soil and in the sea. From the company's point of view, this makes it ideal for Smaller snacks & treats packaging, which are unfortunately often disposed of carelessly and do not end up in the recycling cycle. Consumers can also compost the packaging at home. The certified PHA-based packaging is therefore suitable for countries with an inadequate recycling infrastructure.
Mars Wrigley focuses on a sustainable packaging strategy
The collaboration with Danimer Scientific is one of many projects currently underway worldwide in all Mars business units. For example, Mars Wrigley launched the test pilot for a paper-based packaging for the Balisto chocolate bar in the German market in January of this year. As part of its „Sustainable in a Generation“plan, Mars intends, according to its own information, to make all packaging reusable, recyclable and compostable by 2025 and reduce the consumption of virgin plastic by 25 per cent.
„We are delighted to be working with Mars Wrigley. As a pioneer in biodegradable plastic alternatives, we are constantly driving innovation that delivers better environmental outcomes while guaranteeing the highest quality and food safety standards,“ explains Mars Wrigley. Stephen Croskrey, CEO at Danimer Scientific.
Source: Mars Wrigley
