Upfield has announced the launch of an innovative product that is claimed to be an industry first: plastic-free food containers made of paper fibers for vegetable butter and spreads. This initiative is part of Upfield's commitment to reduce the use of plastic by 80% by 2030 and follows a four-year collaboration with Footprint, MCC and Pagès Group.
David Haines, Chief Executive Officer of Upfield Group, said, "As a global leader in plant-based foods, we take our responsibilities seriously and are committed to making a positive impact on the environment. With 40% of global plastic production being used in single-use packaging and then discarded, this is clearly one of the most critical challenges facing our environment." He added: "Today, consumers want products that are both good for people and good for the planet, and our vegetable butter and spreads are exactly that. We are excited about the potential to launch such products in some of the most iconic brands in some of our most important markets." Unlike many paper packaging solutions, Upfield's food boxes do not have a plastic liner, meaning they can be recycled with other paper and cardboard household waste. The food boxes were developed by Upfield and Footprint, after years of research and development and dozens of prototypes, to successfully create durable, grease-resistant and attractive food boxes.
Yoke Chung, Footprint's co-founder and Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, added: "By partnering with Upfield, Footprint is demonstrating our commitment to a more sustainable planet. The groundbreaking solution launched in partnership with Upfield sets the industry standard. It marks the launch of the first oil-based food container with plant-based spreads. We are proud to partner with Upfield on this transformative work, as it aligns with our shared goal of helping our clients achieve their sustainability goals. This collaborative effort underscores the transformative impact of innovation in fostering positive environmental change, shaping a better future for everyone."
About Upfield Group
Upfield is a European company specializing in the plant-based dairy products and plant-based butter market. The company was founded in 2017 as a spin-off from Unilever (Unilever) and focuses on the plant-based dairy and plant-based butter markets.Upfield's product line includes plant-based milks, plant-based yogurts, plant-based butter, plant-based cheeses, and more, primarily for the European market. With sustainability and wellness in mind, Upfield is committed to developing and promoting plant-based dairy products and plant-based butter to meet the needs of health, the environment, and animal welfare.Upfield's products are made with non-GMO ingredients, have no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and are cholesterol- and trans-fatty acid-free. Upfield has an extensive distribution network in the European market and continues to grow its market share. The company also works with a number of foodservice companies and retailers to provide them with plant-based dairy and plant-based butter products.
About Footprint
Footprint is a long-established British hand tool manufacturer committed to excellence and innovation. Originally supplying wooden drilling tools to the Royal Navy, the company has grown to become a leading manufacturer of pipe wrenches and pliers and has won a number of gold awards for Craftsman tools. In recent years, Footprint US has focused on the development, design and manufacture of environmentally sustainable packaging technology products, with nearly 20 years of industry experience.
