Tetra Pak will launch a paper straw that is suitable for its portion-sized carton packages before the end of the year, as part of a broader programme to help address the issue of plastic straw waste.
The company emphasised that straws play an integral functional role on portion packages, but if not properly disposed of “they then become part of the plastics waste problem”.
Tetra Pak has been working to encourage consumers to push straws back inside packaging once empty, so they can be collected along with the rest of the package.
Charles Brand, Tetra Pak executive vice president of product management and commercial operations
Now work is under way to develop a paper straw that is suitable for use on its portion-size carton packages.
Charles Brand, Tetra Pak executive vice president of product management and commercial operations, said: “It sounds simple enough, but in reality there are a number of significant challenges to producing a paper straw with the required properties.
“That said, our development team is confident they can find a solution, and that we’ll have a paper straw alternative ready to launch by the end of the year.”
On average, Tetra Pak packages are about 75% paperboard; paper straws would be another important step towards the company’s long-term ambition of offering a completely renewable portfolio.
The announcement follows a recent backlash against single-use plastic straws. Earlier this year, both Pernod Ricard and Diageo announced plans to eliminate the use of plastic straws and stirrers.
Pernod Ricard USA has also partnered with US-based start-up Loliware to support the launch of the brand’s edible straws.
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