Unilever switches Carte D’Or ice cream to paper tubs
The move will see the brand use 93% less plastic per pack (compared to the previous Carte D’Or packaging).
The paper comes from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources and is PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) certified. Both tub and lid can be put into the normal household paper recycling stream.
According to research company Kantar, plastic waste is the top environmental concern for British shoppers, so Unilever said the switch will appeal to the growing number of consumers seeking more sustainable products.
“For over 40 years, Carte D’Or has been committed to crafting delicious desserts made with some of the finest quality ingredients, which we strive to source in a sustainable way,” said Horacio Cal, ice cream marketing director for Unilever in the UK and Ireland.
“Now, we’re proud to have made this move to paper tubs, helping shoppers to reduce their plastic packaging footprint at home.”
Unilever launched the new packs at the end of January and is currently rolling them out across the country.
The reduction of 93% less plastic is not 100%, because the company said it needs to use some plastic to ensure the ice cream stays fresh, the taste and quality aren’t affected, and the packs remain durable and sturdy when shoppers take them home. The plastic used on the inner layer of the tub and lid does not affect its ability to be recycled at home.
A plastic seal is also used to ensure the ice cream stays fresh and secure in the pack. At present this seal is non-recyclable, but Unilever said it is working on finding a fully recyclable solution.
The new Carte D’Or packs contain a QR code, which invites shoppers to interactively engage with the brand and discover more about the ingredients, and the brand’s commitment to source Rainforest Alliance Certified vanilla and cocoa.
Carte D’Or’s switch to paper tubs is the latest step toward Unilever’s global plastic targets, which include halving the amount of virgin plastic in packaging and achieving an absolute reduction of more than 100,000 tonnes in plastic use by 2025.
