UK convenience food manufacturer Greencore, in partnership with the Co-op and Sainsbury's, will soon begin trialling a recyclable plastic-free sandwich pack developed in collaboration with ProAmpac.
The packaging is said to be the first of its kind in the world and is the result of 18 months of research and development. The tray will have a plastic-free window and be made entirely of paper. Thanks to the packaging's moisture resistance, products inside are Keeps just as long as in conventional sandwich packaging.
Research has shown that it is difficult for consumers to separate plastic film from packaging. The new paper tray from ProAmpac should make this process considerably easier. The consumer tests should start in September 2021.
Recyclable sandwich packaging without plastic
With the development of the fully recyclable sandwich packaging, Greencore is also fulfilling one of the commitments from its Sustainability Report 2020.
"Developing a fully recyclable sandwich tray is one of the most important ways we can reduce waste and help our customers do their bit for the environment. However, we cannot solve this problem alone. The complexity of the challenges requires collective action within and outside our industry." Andy Wright, Head of the Sustainability Department at Greencore
"The test is in line with our goal of reducing the use of virgin plastic. All our Own-brand packaging is now fully recyclable. We are looking forward to seeing the new packaging on the shelves this autumn and are confident that it will go down well with customers," says Breige Donaghy, Director of Delicious Food, Co-op.
SourceGreencore
