Tetra Pak and Lactogal Lead the Way in Sustainable Beverage Packaging

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Tetra Pak and Lactogal have unveiled a revolutionary aseptic beverage carton featuring a paper-based barrier. Following successful consumer testing in 2022, this eco-friendly packaging, currently available in Portugal, is on track for industrial scale production by 2025.

Comprising approximately 80% paperboard, the Tetra Brik® Aseptic 200 Slim Leaf carton increases renewable content to an impressive 90%. Certified as Carbon Neutral by the Carbon Trust™, it also reduces its carbon footprint by one third, marking a significant leap in environmental sustainability. José Capela, President of Lactogal, praises the collaboration, stating, “Our new carton’s 33% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, together with its Carbon Neutral certification by the Carbon Trust™, is a significant achievement towards this goal.”

This eco-conscious packaging aligns with pressing concerns facing the food and beverage industry, addressing greenhouse gas emissions, food waste, and plastic littering. Tetra Pak, a pioneer in sustainable packaging, previously introduced the Tetra Rex® Plant-based package in 2015. Now, with the Tetra Brik® Aseptic 200 Slim Leaf carton, Tetra Pak and Lactogal are advancing towards their ambition of a fully recyclable, carbon-neutral beverage carton made from responsibly sourced renewable or recycled materials.

Ola Elmqvist, Executive Vice President Packaging Solutions at Tetra Pak, highlights the significance of this development, stating, “By joining forces with Lactogal, we’re now demonstrating that it’s possible to progress the sustainability of aseptic beverage cartons while securing food safety and enhancing food access.”

Tetra Pak, in collaboration with industry partners through the Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment (ACE), has already adopted Design for Recycling guidelines in 2022. Their commitment to circularity is further evident through participation in the 4evergreen alliance, which aims to enhance the role of fibre-based packaging in a circular and sustainable economy. Tetra Pak’s ongoing efforts continue to set the pace for the paperisation of packaging and reinforce their dedication to environmental stewardship.