This new packaging applies to all 1.75-liter cartons of milk.
TINE told DairyReporter that the packaging was tested in production in order to ensure functionality.
The plan is to also transition juice into the plant-based cartons starting in the autumn of 2016.
Reduces environmental impact
Director for TINE CSR, Bjorn Malm, said TINE uses about 30,000 tonnes of packaging annually, a large portion of which contains plastic.
“We must help ensure that new technology and more efficient packaging becomes available. Good environmental solutions not only reduce environmental impact, but will also help increase our competitiveness,” Malm said.
Raw materials from sugar cane
Tetra Pak has developed the plant-based carton, which is the latest innovation in renewable packaging. Tetra Pak uses residual products from sugar production, instead of raw materials from petroleum. After being harvested and crushed, the sugar cane juice is converted into ethanol, which is then converted into polyethylene, which makes up certain parts of the carton.
TINE told DR that “no significant costs are added to the packaging” through the new process.
“In 2013, we began using renewable plant-based caps on our dessert products. In 2014, we followed up by introducing caps on all our 1.75 liter cartons. Now the cardstock is 100% renewable,” Malm added.
“The carton in 100% recyclable,” TINE also told DR.
The company says it has made other strategic choices towards more climate-friendly solutions. The new carton is one of several measures, including reducing fuel costs and increasing the use of environmentally friendly fuels.