Packaging giant Tetra Pak has signed up the first client to trial its new fully recyclable carton, marking the latest breakthrough for plant-based plastic technologies.

 

Tetra Pak confirmed yesterday that Finnish dairy producer Valio this week started selling lactose free semi-skimmed milk in the new Tetra Rex Bio-based cartons, which use polythene derived from sugar cane rather than oil for the laminate film, cap, and neck opening.

 

In addition, both the plastic and the Forest Stewardship Council certified cardboard, are traceable to their origins, the company said.

 

If the packaging proves successful after a three month pilot, Valio could roll it out to other products in its chilled drinks range.

 

Charles Brand, executive vice president of product management and commercial operations for Tetra Pak, said the news marked a milestone for its efforts to develop greener products.

 

"We have been gradually increasing the use of renewable materials in our packages over the years, and that work will continue, as we look for ways to extend the fully-renewable concept to other parts of our portfolio without compromising safety, quality or functionality," he said in a statement.