DuPont Names Sustainable Packaging Awards Winners

WILMINGTON, Del.Coca Cola, Heinz, Nestle and Stonyfield Farm were among winners of the 23rd DuPont Awards for Packaging Innovation, the industry's longest-running, independently judged global award program for packaging materials, technology and service innovation. More than 200 entries from around the world were judged on new developments, cost/waste reduction and improved sustainability.

Nearly all of the winning innovations related to reducing waste in the system," said John Bernardo, principal, Sustainable Innovations LLC. The jury could see a much deeper consideration of sustainability concerns, starting with responsible sourcing, thoughtful package design, all the way to end-of-life factors."

H.J. Heinz Co. (USA) received a silver award for its new Heinz Dip & Squeeze Ketchup package that was developed in response to consumer demand for a package that can be used for either dipping or squeezing and made eating-on-the-go easier. The new, revolutionary dual-function package is another portable ketchup option for restaurant operators. It offers better functionality and convenience that delight the consumer by offering two different ways of usetearing off the top or cap" for squeezing or peeling off the lid for dipping. The Heinz Dip & Squeeze Ketchup package provides three times more ketchup than standard 9-gram sachets and uses less packaging. Shaped like the iconic glass Heinz® Ketchup bottle, Dip & Squeeze strongly reinforces the Heinz ketchup brand.

Stonyfield Farm (USA) received a silver award for its breakthrough use of PLA (polylactic acid) in a high-volume dairy application. The new form/fill/seal multipack yogurt cups are made of 93% PLA, a switch from polystyrene (HIPS), believed to be the first for the market. The PLA is made by Natureworks and results in 48 percent lower GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions vs. HIPS. Compression strength increased by 15% to 20%, resulting in fewer damaged products during transit. Stonyfield also overcame the difficult challenge of applying a good lidding seal to a PLA cup, as the lidding film needs to withstand heat during application. In addition, using 93% plant-based material further drives their reputation as a leader in sustainability.

The Coca-Cola Co. (Japan) received a silver award for its I Lohas mineral water brand. The PET bottle weight was reduced by 40% compared to the former design while guaranteeing consumer usability. In addition, 1,020 I Lohas PET bottles are also Japans lightest in the 1,000 ml class. Once consumed, the bottle is easily twisted, which crushes the bottle to a very small size. This smaller size reduces transport cost to the recycler and improves transportation efficiency. It also supports the needs of the local market by reducing the volume that comes out of Japanese households. This PET bottle is extremely light and has the environmental benefit of using up to 30% plant-based material, reducing the petroleum-based materials.

Positive Packaging Industries Ltd. (India) received a silver award for its new approach to condiment containers for Nestles Maggi Arome seasoning liquid. The new thermoformed, single-use mini bottles made of flexible laminate, offers consumers in this market, convenience, ease of use and affordability.  The bottle-shaped packet maintains brand recognition and enhances shelf appeal. Its small size also offers easier handling and shipment.