Smoothie Converts to 100% RPET Container

Recyclable 100% RPET container reduces product’s carbon footprint 55% versus its original virgin PET container, cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 1,000 tons in 2008. RPET container also weighs 20% less.

04/12/2007 In one of first uses of 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (RPET) beverage container, Innocent Ltd., London, UK, adopts 250-millilitre (ml) RPET bottle for its ready-to-drink, refrigerated smoothies.

Transition to 100% RPET represents final step in conversion process that began in 2000 with switch from 100% virgin PET container to 75% virgin PET/25% RPET, 2005 shift to 50% virgin PET/50% RPET. Recyclable 100% RPET container reduces product’s carbon footprint 55% versus its original virgin PET container, cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 1,000 tons in 2008. RPET container also weighs 20% less.

Other packaging comonents include polyethylene cap, paper labels with 25% recycled content/75% content certified by Forestry Stewardship Council, Bonn, Germany.

Test of polylactic acid containers shows compostable biopolymer is not currently suitable for packaging company’s yogurt-based Breakfast Thickie products, raises disposal concerns since only about 5% of UK households have access to composting facilities, versus 56% with access to PET recycling.