Upfield , a global leader in plant-based foods, today introduces the world's first plastic-free, recyclable container for its plant-based butters and spreads.

After four years of innovation and collaboration with Footprint, MCC and the Pagès Group, this launch marks the beginning of Upfield's transition to a paper solution across its portfolio to achieve the company's goal of reducing plastic content by 80% by 2030 .

The solution was initially introduced in Austria with Flora Plant at the end of 2023. By 2030, Upfield expects to further scale its paper solution to replace up to two billion plastic containers, eliminating more than 25,000 tons of plastic waste per year.

The groundbreaking paper containers were developed in collaboration with Upfield's experienced research and development team and using Footprint's materials science technology. They are made from pressed, wet paper fibers, are waterproof, oil-resistant and can be recycled in local waste paper streams. The container has received Conventional Plastic Free certification and is made from paper from a PEFC certified supplier. Upfield expects the packaging to receive household compostability certification by 2025.

David Haines, Group CEO of Upfield, commented: “As a global leader in plant-based foods, we take our responsibility to make a positive impact on the world very seriously. 40% of the plastic produced worldwide is used for packaging that is used once and then thrown away. It is therefore obvious that the problem of plastic waste is one of the biggest problems for our environment. When we founded Upfield, our goal was to innovate to eliminate the need for plastic packaging, and I am very proud of everyone at Upfield who remains committed to achieving this goal. Consumers today demand products that benefit people as well as our planet. Our plant butters and spreads meet exactly these requirements. We are excited about the potential to introduce these products with our iconic brands in some of our key markets.”

Unlike most other paper packaging, Upfield's paper containers do not have a plastic lining. They can therefore be recycled alongside other household paper and cardboard waste, as confirmed by a leading European recycling company.

Karina Cerdeira, Head of Packaging at Upfield, said: “With Footprint, we are proud to have developed an innovative paper-based container that is durable, oil-resistant and visually appealing, which many thought was impossible to create with paper. But thanks to years of dedicated effort from Upfield and Footprint's joint research and development teams and dozens of prototypes, we have made the impossible possible. This new paper container is a milestone in sustainable packaging, significantly reducing reliance on plastic. In the future, we will continue to push the boundaries through further innovations by making the product compostable, developing new sizes and formats and refining the optimal solution. We hope our achievements inspire other companies to continue to advocate for positive change.”

Yoke Chung, Co-founder and Chief Technology & Innovation Officer of Footprint, added: “Footprint’s commitment to a more sustainable planet is demonstrated by our partnership with Upfield. With the introduction of a groundbreaking solution developed in collaboration with Upfield, we are setting a future-oriented industry standard. It is the introduction of the first oil-resistant paper container for plant-based spreads. We are very proud to partner with Upfield on this innovative venture as it aligns with our shared goal of helping customers achieve their sustainability goals. This collective effort demonstrates the transformative impact of innovation in driving positive environmental change that will enable us to create a better future for all.”

To stay updated on this journey, follow @UpfieldGlobal on social media or visit Upfield.com.

 

Source:businesswire.com

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