Packaging innovations: Mars launches paper wrappers, Absolut lightens up with paper bottle

Companies constantly innovate with technology and redesign their packaging to get better performance, improve marketability and enhance sustainability. Here’s a look at six of the recent revamps, innovations and sustainable packaging solutions on Packaging Dive’s radar.

Mission for Mars

Mars launched a limited-time pilot program in the U.K. to wrap Mars bars in recyclable paper packaging instead of plastic. Mars will use the learnings from the trial in Tesco grocery stores to inform other pilots with potential to increase sustainability.

“With our Mars bar pilot project, we are taking a big step to see how paper-based packaging works in everyday life,” said Adam Grant, general manager at Mars Wrigley UK, in a news release.

This pilot joins others Mars is launching this year in alignment with its sustainability plan, including trials of recyclable monomaterials and reusable packaging models. In April, the company began shifting to paper-based packaging for its Mars bar, Milky Way and Snickers products in Australia.

Absolut lightens up

An Absolut Vodka bottle made from paper. — Courtesy of The Absolut Company

Also in the U.K., Absolut Vodka is running a three-month test of a single-mold paper bottle as an alternative to glass. The bottles will be available in Manchester-area Tesco grocery stores, and Absolut says this is the first time such paper spirits bottles have been sold commercially in stores.

The bottles contain 57% paper and a barrier of recyclable plastic, and consumers can recycle the entire container via typical programs, according to the company. Paper bottles are eight times lighter than glass and easier to carry, but the end goal is to complement — not replace — glass versions.

During the trial, Absolut will obtain insights from consumers, retailers and other partners in the supply chain to inform its decisions about the next steps for a fully bio-based, commercially viable bottle. For example, the company will study how consumers perceive the bottle and how well it transports. The company aims to produce a carbon-neutral product by 2030.

Sprite’s summer makeover

A pink can of Sprite's limited-time Lymonade Legacy beverage. — Courtesy of Sprite

Sprite cans will get a refresh this summer during a promotion that celebrates the 50th anniversary of hip-hop music. In addition to launching a limited-time flavor, Lymonade Legacy, in a pink can, the brand is releasing redesigned original Sprite cans with a look that “takes cues from summer and the crisp, refreshing taste of Sprite, as well as boomboxes, studio mixers and other tech tools synonymous with hip-hop's journey,” according to a news release.

Consumers can scan a QR code on either product this summer to access prize giveaways, exclusive content and merchandise.

Summer sips

A pack of aluminum water bottles with colorful summer packaging. — Courtesy of Path Water

Path Water this week released a limited edition summer bottle for on-the-go hydration.

“Taking inspiration from summertime, we used the classic elements of the season to bring a fun and unique look to our bottle,” a spokesperson said via email. “We used primary colors to stand out on shelves, inspire everyone to get outdoors, and encourage consumers of all ages to hydrate sustainably.”

Like Path’s other offerings, the aluminum bottles are refillable and recyclable, the spokesperson confirmed, and this version also has a recyclable aluminum cap. The imagery on the bottle does not affect recyclability, because the entire bottle is melted during the process and non-metal elements are skimmed off the mixture as slag. The bottles are made with up to 20% postindustrial recycled aluminum.

Soft touch

Compostable packaging films made from biomaterials. — Courtesy of Earthfirst Films

Biopolymer film manufacturer Earthfirst Films released a line of “soft-touch” products that it says will be home compostable. The films are made from a “unique biopolymer blend of TUV NF T51-800 compliant materials,” according to the Ohio company’s news release. Earthfirst Films is applying for home compostable certification for these products, which have a range of applications including mailing envelopes, retail bags and refrigerated gel packs.

“Home compostability provides greater end of life accessibility for companies where sustainability is important to their business and to their consumers,” Edward Tweed, research and development director, said in the news release.

It’s a snap

Snap-shut food packaging with a paper-based bottom and clear plastic top. — Courtesy of Sabert

New Jersey-based Sabert Corp. announced its new EcoSnap product line, which features a clear PET lid that snaps onto a PFAS-free paperboard base. The paperboard portion has a water-based grease barrier that makes it suitable for use with food, with a “unique audible locking system to keep food secure.” The entire container is technically recyclable, according to the company, and the clear tops enhance how hot and cold foods look on shelves.