As consumers become more environmentally conscious, they are looking for the same kind of commitment to the environment from the brands they support.

CPGs recognize this evolution and have been pursuing initiatives that will make their companies and their products more sustainable. Part of this equation is directly connected to the use of more sustainable packaging, which is evident in the fast-growing refrigerated and frozen foods category. One new solution is the Natrellis packaging portfolio from Sonoco and Tellus Products. Made entirely from U.S.-grown sugarcane, an annually renewable resource, Natrellis uses upcycled sugarcane fiber and forms a natural color, molded fiber, cook-in package that can withstand the rigors of cooking frozen and fresh meals.

These sugarcane fiber trays and bowls are compatible with both typical microwave and conventional oven cooking. The packaging maintains rigidity during and after cooking—and while it may temporarily stiffen during the blast freezing cycle, the sugarcane fiber trays will not become brittle.

The engineered surface is designed to deliver moisture, oil and grease resistance during cooking and eating, which helps maintain the package strength during all phases of use, preventing loss of food moisture and eliminating the concern of wicking through the package to surfaces beneath.

A family of films have been built for strong heat seals around the perimeter of the tray lip—preventing leakage prior to freezing and maintaining adhesion during cooking (if desired), while remaining easy to peel. They have formulated sealants for both hot roller and platen technologies. The combination of the membrane seal and engineered vapor barrier of the tray ensures product quality throughout the shelf life of both fresh and frozen products.

The manufacturing facility is powered by renewable biomass and solar energy, making it an efficient and environmentally sustainable manufacturing operation.

This packaging meets the cook-in food contact packaging requirements for 21CFR186.1673 (GRAS) and 21CFR176.170.

Natrellis is one of the newest members of Sonoco’s EnviroSense family of more sustainable packaging. //

Britain’s first fully plastic-free and recyclable lid-free takeout cup recently debuted. The ButterflyCup doesn’t need a separate lid; the paperboard package incorporates a patented folding design that securely closes the top of the cup to prevent splashes, leaks and drips. The built-in drinking spout allows consumers to drink without using a straw for cold drinks.

Most cups are not recycled due to their plastic lining. They also require the container and the lid to be thrown away separately often causing users to dispose of them incorrectly. ButterflyCup contains no plastic laminate and due to its design, eliminates the need for a plastic lid. The inks are also plant-based. Being fully recyclable, consumers discard the cup in the recycle bin with other paper and cardboard products.

ButterflyCup has been in talks with several major coffee chains and is currently used in more than 20 countries. Currently, the company is rolling out product with WWT, a leading UK conservation organization saving wetlands for wildlife and people across the world. //

SGK Anthem, Vrijdag Premium Printing, Generous Minds, Neurensics, Kurz and Merck have teamed up as Packadore Collective to design and implement desirable and sustainable packaging solutions. The first launch: DeXel, a flexible connected packaging solution to change consumer behavior and reduce waste.

The DeXel conceptual innovation uses connected technology to transform jars and bottles into intelligent packaging. The food-saving timer device magnetically attaches to the lid of the package, using motion sense technology and an LED light system to help consumers reduce their food waste.

Prior to opening the jar or bottle, the user scans the QR code on pack with a smartphone, and enters the color of the device and date into the app. The DeXel timer device is then “connected” and can track and advise on the extended use of the product. If the cross on the device is fully lit up in green, the product is safe to use. If it shows only one green bar, the product needs to be consumed that day. A red LED indicates that the product is no longer safe to use and needs to be disposed of.

The DeXel app is sponsored by partnership brands who can engage with consumers by providing tips for food preservation in aid of reducing food waste. Data shared by consumers and stored by DeXel can be used to provide consumer insights on the use of their brands. //