The reusable lids will be used to test the wood-based biocomposite in food packaging, and will be distributed through Valio’s promotional sales demonstrations early this year.
According to the FAO, about one third of the world’s food ends up as food waste or is thrown away each year. Valio said this generates unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
The company said packaging – and the lid – plays an important role in preventing food waste, as the lid protects the food during storage.
“With this pilot project we are encouraging people to take small, concrete actions to reduce food waste. The lid makes it easy to protect the unused crème fraiche or quark,” Jussi-Pekka Lumme, packaging development manager at Valio said.
At the same time, Valio and Stora Enso are testing how the biocomposite functions when combined with the food packaging. The lids are durable, washable and made from hygienic DuraSense by Stora Enso, a biocomposite material that combines wood fibers and polymers. The biocomposite make it possible to cut the share of plastic in various products by as much as half and thus reduce the carbon footprint.
“In 2018 we switched to fully plant-based packaging in all 250m gable-top milk, yogurt, cream, and sour milk packages. The packages are a part of our larger concept of aiming to reset milk’s carbon footprint to zero by 2035. We are constantly exploring new packaging innovations to test and take into use,” Lumme said.
Stora Enso’s Hannu Kasurinen, executive vice president, packaging materials, added, “We at Stora Enso see a strong demand for climate-friendly food packaging. The change is being driven by recognized product brands that are seeking eco-friendly solutions. We are actively developing innovative solutions that help food chains respond to consumer demands for sustainable selections.”