Unilever Thailand and SCG Chemicals launch food-grade recycled Knorr packaging

Unilever Thailand and SCG Chemicals (SCGC) have developed recycled packaging under the Knorr brand for “Knorr Professional.” The launch marks the first time food packaging produced through advanced recycling technology has been introduced to the ASEAN market.

The food-grade recycled packaging has been developed using advanced recycling technology from SCGC Green Polymer. 

“SCGC prioritizes developing technology to meet specific needs across industries, particularly the food sector, with its high safety standards. This partnership with Unilever marks a significant milestone as we leverage our advanced recycling technology,” says Chatri Eamsobhana, chief commercial officer at SCG Chemicals.” 

“The process, developed by SCGC, uses a catalyst that enables recycling at lower temperatures, reducing energy consumption, being environmentally friendly, and mitigating plastic waste accumulation in the country. This represents the first commercial application of such technology in ASEAN.”

Creating food-safe value

The technology converts plastic waste into circular naphtha feedstock, which is then used to produce new Certified Circular Polyolefin Resins. The resins are said to have the same properties as virgin plastics and are certified under the ISCC Plus standard across the entire supply chain.

The certification ensures the packaging can be used safely for food products and is free from harmful chemical residues or contaminants that could be hazardous to health or taint the food. 

“This initiative demonstrates tangible technological progress and creates new value from plastic waste without compromising quality or safety,” says Eamsobhana.

“SCGC is the first in the Thai petrochemical industry to receive this certification for the whole supply chain, and this new packaging will help reduce plastic waste by 30,000 kg annually.”

Unilever has already launched Knorr Professional products featuring this sustainable packaging in Thailand and Vietnam.

Kulnipa Lertpimonchai, managing director at Unilaver Food Solutions Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Cambodia, says: “For Unilever, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We are deeply committed to reducing plastic use, from packaging design to offering environmentally friendly alternatives.” 

“This collaboration with SCGC, starting from the design phase, reflects our drive to develop and deliver eco-friendly choices for consumers and business partners. This commitment helps us to build a sustainable future and realize our vision of ‘Brighten Everyday Life for All.’”