In a groundbreaking move towards eco-conscious packaging, Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging, has joined forces with Veetee, an award-winning rice supplier, to introduce the United Kingdom to the world of recyclable, paper-based packaging. This partnership marks the first-ever paper-based packaging solution for dry rice in the UK market, offering consumers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic packaging.
Revolutionizing Rice Packaging
Mondi’s innovation lies in the use of their recyclable FunctionalBarrier Paper, meticulously designed to meet the demands of Veetee’s rice range. This new packaging, available on shelves since April, not only provides a direct replacement for plastic but also boasts essential barrier properties necessary for safeguarding the quality and freshness of the rice products. Veetee’s commitment to reducing plastic waste aligns seamlessly with this eco-friendly initiative.
Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The collaboration between Mondi and Veetee is a testament to their dedication to sustainability. Mondi takes a customer-centric approach, thoroughly evaluating the product’s requirements and consumer needs to create a packaging solution that is both functional and environmentally responsible. The process involves sourcing certified renewable materials, manufacturing certified kraft paper, adding barrier functionality, and custom printing. The result is a paper-based packaging that meets all standards, ensuring the protection of the contents while supporting Veetee’s mission to minimize plastic usage and promote recyclability.
Certified for Sustainability
One of the most significant achievements of this venture is the certification of the new packaging by OPRL (On-Pack Recycling Label) for wide acceptance in UK kerbside recycling programs. This ensures that consumers can easily dispose of the packaging in an environmentally friendly manner, contributing to a circular economy. Furthermore, Mondi’s FunctionalBarrier Paper offers excellent printability, allowing Veetee to convey disposal instructions on the packaging, and retailers to effectively promote their brand and products on store shelves.
The Path to a Greener Future
Veetee, a recognized UK retailer, shares the same sustainability values as Mondi. Their commitment extends to targets such as achieving net zero carbon emissions, reducing single-use plastic, and increasing closed-loop recycling. Both companies are aligned with the MAP2030 target, which aims to make all packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable. The transition to paper-based packaging represents a significant step in Veetee’s sustainability journey, with a clear vision of making a positive environmental impact.
James Yarrow, Regional Sales UK & Ireland Consumer Flexibles at Mondi, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Our goal was to eliminate unsustainable packaging, and we are very proud to have achieved that as a first-to-market initiative in the UK – both with paper packaging and our unique Rice Box. Mondi shared our vision and was committed from the outset; the team’s expertise is second to none, and we have both thoroughly enjoyed the collaboration. Following some capital investments enabling us to handle this new paper packaging, we are excited about this launch which we know consumers will welcome.”
An Eco-Friendly Future
The introduction of recyclable paper-based packaging for dry rice by Mondi and Veetee signifies a monumental stride towards a more sustainable future in the UK food market. With this innovation, consumers can make eco-conscious choices without compromising on product quality. As the world continues to address environmental concerns, initiatives like this serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that eco-friendly packaging solutions are not only feasible but also a crucial step toward a greener world.