Finnish dairy manufacturer Valio has partnered with Stora Enso to test the use of biocomposite in food packaging, in a move to reduce food waste.
Under the pilot project, the companies will distribute 10,000 wood fibre-based reusable lids for quark containers to test how the biocomposite functions when combined with the food packaging.
The aim of the joint project is to test the ability of the reusable lids in preventing food waste 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,” says Jussi-Pekka Lumme, packaging development manager at Valio.
Designed by Stora Enso, the lids are made from DuraSense, a biocomposite material that combines wood fibres and polymers which is both durable and washable.
According to the packaging manufacturer, the material offers the mouldability of plastics and the strength and sustainability of wood, resulting in a reduced CO2 footprint by up to 80%. The material also makes it possible to cut the share of plastic in various products by as much as half.
As part of the project, the lids will be distributed through Valio’s promotional sales demonstrations early this year.
Lumme added: “In 2018 we switched to fully plant-based packaging in all 250 million 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.”
Hannu Kasurinen, executive VP of packaging materials at Stora Enso, said: “We at Stora Enso see a strong demand for climate-friendly food packaging.
“The change is being driven by recognised 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.”
