Huhtamaki launches fiber-based egg cartons in US and Brazil as plastic and foam-based alternatives

22 Jun 2021 --- Huhtamaki is introducing fiber-based egg cartons to the Brazilian and US markets as plastic and foam-based alternatives. 

The Smilepack cartons are made with molded fiber from recovered paper and can be recycled in regular paper streams. 

Both home and industrially compostable, they have also been designed to optimize the logistics of packing, loading, stacking and on-shelf visibility for US retailers specifically.

Huhtamaki says Smilepack is already used by a “prominent producer and distributor” of free-range eggs in the US. 

It further estimates that by switching to fiber packaging, the undisclosed egg company will eliminate around 4.6 million plastic egg cartons or around 200 metric tons of plastic annually.

Huhtamaki is “committed to circular design” to ensure that its products are recyclable, compostable or reusable by 2030, says Gala Mansurova, head of eggs, produce and fruits category, fiber foodservice at Huhtamaki Europe-Asia-Oceania. 

Compared to plastic or foam-based egg packaging, Huhtamaki says Smilepack cartons are “more impactful on store shelves.” “As part of that, we are focused on developing innovative sustainable packaging solutions for our customers where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.”

Egging on plastic versus paper
Excess wrapping is often no longer needed when switching from PET packaging to molded fiber, considering fiber packaging can reduce the need for several plastic layers.

Moreover, Huhtamaki highlights eggs can remain fresh for longer in fiber-based egg cartons when compared to plastic or foam-based alternatives.

Meanwhile, consumer acceptance of plastic alternatives for egg cartons shows promise. Innova Market Insights revealed 17 percent of consumers in both Brazil and the US view plastic packaging as “excellent” food protection, which compares to 18 percent of Brazilians and 14 percent of US consumers saying the same about paper food packaging.

Attracting the consumer’s eye
Huhtamaki argues its Smilepack cartons are “more impactful” on store shelves compared to plastic or foam-based egg packaging. 

Smilepack cartons are available in different colors, which can be used to differentiate between egg sizes and brands.The manufacturer maintains they offer up to 10 percent more billboard space on the egg packaging label when compared to current plastic alternatives. “That means more opportunities to deliver product information and marketing messages to consumers,” highlights the company.

Huhtamaki offers Smilepack cartons in different colors, which can be used to visually differentiate brands, egg sizes and origin source. 

Also tapping into the shelf appeal trend, Multivac revealed today that it has developed a full wrap labeling solution for plastic and cardboard egg packs that enhances product safety.

Huhtamaki’s food moves
In previous interviews with PackagingInsights, experts from Huhtamaki detailed the company’s solutions for the soups, ready meal, ice cream and confectionery packaging sectors. 

Notably, the company recently created a catalog of 100 food delivery packaging designs to bring a broad range of environmentally sustainable options to the growing e-commerce market. 

Edited by Anni Schleicher