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FoodBev Media
18 September 2008
Tetra Pak signs global agreement with Unistraw
Tetra Pak, the world leader in food processing and packaging solutions, has signed a global agreement with Australian-based Unistraw International Ltd for a patented on-pack straw drinking system that can deliver probiotics in long-life milk, dairy products and juice.
“This new on-pack straw system provides a unique marketing vehicle for our customers, which will help make milk, juice and other dairy products more exciting and engaging for the consumer,” said Michael Zacka, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management, Tetra Pak.
“It’s another example of how Tetra Pak is constantly innovating to provide cost effective packaging solutions that will help customers compete in an increasingly crowded marketplace.”
An entrant in the Dairy Innovation Awards 2008, the Unistraw on-pack straw delivery system is compatible with most Tetra Brik Aseptic individual portion pack drink cartons and allows producers to offer consumers long-life products with probiotics.
No additional investment is required as long as customers have one of the popular Tetra Pak TSA/21 or TSA/22 straw applicators. Minor modifications may be needed for other Tetra Pak straw applicators. Global availability is scheduled for mid-2009.
The company competed in the Best packaging innovation category and also in the children's product category at the di awards with the Unistraw solution. The probiotics in the straw are stored in the form of dry, stable UniBeads which are held in place by filters at both ends of the straw and dissolve as liquid is sipped through it.
Besides probiotics, the recyclable straw can also be used to add flavour, energy, vitamins and nutrition to liquid sipped through it. With this method, probiotic beverages need no refrigeration and have a shelf life of up to 12 months.
Tim York, Managing Director, Unistraw, said: “We developed the new system based on increasing consumer demand for convenience, health and well-being, choice and taste – in a format that’s compatible with busy and increasingly mobile lifestyles.
"Partnering with Tetra Pak to introduce this new system is a natural fit for us. Not only do they have a long history of innovation and leadership in food packaging and processing, they also enjoy an extensive global customer base.”
Under terms of the agreement, Tetra Pak customers will have access to the new straw system for carton packaging, which Tetra Pak and Unistraw will market jointly.
Tetra Pak has also signed an agreement with Unistraw in October 2007 for the on-pack Sipahh Milk Flavouring Straw, a patented straw drinking system which delivers flavours.
Companies with innovative solutions such as these will find the new dairy drinks category for the 2009 beverage awards at drinktec an ideal opportunity and setting to showcase their products. For more information go to the <2009 beverage awards website><1>.