Clover Sonoma intends to increase the PCR content and accelerate PCR content use across the firm’s gallon milk jugs by 2025
Clover Sonoma is set to introduce PCR-based gallon milk jug in US. (Credit: CLOVER STORNETTA FARMS, INC.)
Dairy company Clover Sonoma is set to introduce its first post-consumer recycled (PCR) gallon milk jug in the US, as part of the company’s sustainable efforts.
Clover Sonoma, which started with 30% PCR content on its organic gallon milk line, intends to increase the PCR content and accelerate PCR content use across the firm’s gallon milk jugs by 2025.
At present, the firm’s gallon milk jugs are produced using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, which is generally referred to as #2 plastic. It is widely accepted in plastics in recycling programmes across the US.
Clover Sonoma now requires a more volume of recycled HDPE, as it is producing milk gallon jug packaging using more PCR content.
The new PCR milk jugs feature a designated logo to educate consumers regarding the new packaging’s benefits. They are expected to be available in the first quarter of next year.
Clover Sonoma CRO Kristel Corson said: “To reach our sustainability goals, packaging innovation is a priority for us as a company.
“Finding sustainable solutions means taking risks and investing in what’s best for the planet. We are focused on improving our packaging across product lines using reusable, recyclable, renewable, and environmentally conscious resources. We encourage the food industry to join us in this effort.”
According to the company, the use of PCR content in plastic packaging enables the creation of a closed-loop system for recycling plastic gallon milk jugs and assure that plastic is neither created nor destroyed, but re-used for a single purpose.
The PCR content is a material produced from the items such as aluminium, cardboard boxes, paper, and plastic bottles, which are collected through local recycling programmes and shipped to recycling facilities for sorting into bales based on the material.
Later, the bales are purchased and melted into small pellets and moulded into new items.
The new PCR plastic material will be used in different finished products, including plastic gallon milk jugs. With a slightly darker appearance, the PCR plastic packaging is food safe and FDA approved.
Last year, the company first introduced its fully renewable milk carton in the US, as part of its efforts to deliver sustainable packaging solutions for the food and beverage industry.