Upfield, the global leader in plant-based foods, announces a groundbreaking initiative with the launch of the world’s first plastic-free, recyclable tubs for its plant butters and spreads. Developed in collaboration with Footprint, MCC, and Pagès Group, this innovation is part of Upfield’s commitment to reduce plastic content by 80% by 2030.

The plastic-free tubs, initially launched in Austria with Flora Plant in late 2023, signify Upfield’s shift to a paper-based solution across its portfolio. The company aims to replace up to two billion plastic tubs by 2030, preventing over 25,000 tons of plastic waste annually.

Constructed with compressed wet paper fibers using Footprint’s material sciences technology, the tubs are waterproof, oil-proof, and recyclable in local paper waste streams. They have received Conventional Plastic Free Certification and use paper from a PEFC-certified supplier. Upfield anticipates achieving home compostability certification by 2025.

David Haines, Group CEO for Upfield, expressed pride in the innovative achievement, emphasizing the company’s dedication to making a positive environmental impact. The plastic-free tubs, unlike many paper packaging solutions, lack a plastic liner, enabling recycling with other paper and cardboard household waste.

Karina Cerdeira, Head of Packaging for Upfield, highlighted the achievement, stating, “This new paper tub marks a true milestone for sustainable packaging that significantly minimizes reliance on plastic. We will continue pushing boundaries through further innovation to adapt for compostability, develop new sizes and formats, and refine towards the optimal solution.”

Yoke Chung, Co-founder and Chief Technology & Innovation Officer for Footprint, emphasized the collaborative effort’s transformative influence, underlining the shared commitment to sustainability goals. The plastic-free tubs embody a pioneering industry standard, marking a pivotal moment in environmental change.

Upfield plans to expand the use of these sustainable paper tubs across its iconic brands and key markets, aligning with consumer demand for products that benefit both people and the planet.