Mountain Blue, a leader in blueberry genetics, is conducting a paper-based packaging trial on its Eureka brand, in collaboration with packaging and systems solutions company, Opal, and supermarket retailer Coles Group.
The trial will see kerbside recyclable and FSC-certified cardboard punnets for blueberries introduced across 34 Coles stores located in Northern New South Wales over a two-month period. The punnets, which are an alternative to plastic containers, feature a transparent film produced from wood pulp, allowing customers to easily view the blueberries.
Mountain Blue says that by using FSC certified materials, the packaging further reinforces a commitment to sustainability, ensuring the materials come from responsibly managed forests.
The kerbside recyclable punnets, developed in collaboration with Opal, aim to provide a plastic-free alternative without compromising on the quality and freshness of the blueberries.
The punnets are made from recycled paper manufactured by Opal in Australia, providing, the company says, the robustness needed to protect fresh produce through supply chains and freight.
"We’re excited to trial kerbside recyclable cardboard punnets with Opal. This innovation offers consumers sustainable packaging choices in Coles supermarkets,” said Andrew Bell, MD, Mountain Blue.
Chris Daly, executive GM, Opal Packaging, said Opal is investing in research and development to test and commercialise products made from recycled and recyclable paper and cardboard.
“By partnering with Mountain Blue, we were able to understand their packaging needs and work together with our automation and machinery team, to deliver a punnet solution that is innovative, functional and sustainable,” said Daly.
Brooke Donnelly, Coles GM of Sustainability, said the supermarket is continuously looking for ways to innovate and redesign its packaging.
“Fresh produce packaging is ripe for innovation, and we’re excited to provide our customers with a plastic-free alternative for much-loved and in season blueberries,” said Brooke Donnelly.
“This trial is about ensuring the new cardboard punnets keep blueberries as fresh and tasty as the conventional plastic packaging, and to see how our customers respond to the change.”
Consumers across Northern NSW can find Eureka punnets in the new recyclable packaging throughout October 2024. Mountain Blue hopes this trial will pave the way for broader adoption of sustainable packaging.
