Tetra pak has announced that its customers have begun testing with their paper straws for beverage cartons in Europe.
Adolfo Orive, President and CEO of Tetra Pak, said: “We are pleased to have developed a paper straw that is fully functional and meets internationally recognized food safety standards. This is an important step in our vision to achieve a container made entirely with materials of plant origin, contributing to a low-carbon circular economy ”.
Made from recyclable FSC ™ certified paper, just like the rest of the packaging, the new paper straw will initially be available to consumers. cardboard packaging in individual sizes, commonly used for dairy products and children's beverages: Tetra Brik® Aseptic 200 Base and Tetra Brik® Aseptic 200 Base Crystal. The initial format chosen will be that of the straight straw. The portfolio of containers and different forms of straws will be progressively increased as the project progresses.
Market trials for paper straws have already started, with limited volumes. Meanwhile, the company is working to increase production capacity at its straw plant in Lisbon, Portugal.
The company has also announced that it has been evaluating technical advances and working with several technology leaders to explore other biodegradable options, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a polymer that is also derived from plant-based materials.
