Cadbury supports emerging recycling technology to source flexible plastic packaging containing recycled content. Its range of Dairy Milk, Caramilk and Old Gold family blocks will be packaged in 30% recycled plastic, in place of its traditional single-use material.
The change will see over 120 tonnes of packaging waste diverted from landfill. The wrapper is more durable with the same look and feel, carrying the distinctive purple colors and markers and preserving the taste, texture and shape of the chocolate.
There is a QR code on the packaging, providing more information about packaging innovation and how the company is supporting a circular economy for packaging.
Mondelēz International CEO Dirk Van de Put said Australia is leading the way in finding solutions for a circular economy of packaging waste.
“Until recently, flexible plastic packaging was considered a single-use material,” Van de Put said. “The development of advanced recycling technology and our significant investment in recycled soft plastic means it’s now possible for Cadbury fans to enjoy their favorite treats in a more sustainable way here in Australia.”
The chocolate maker has sourced 120 tonnes of recycled content overseas, but says the announcement sends a signal to the market that there is demand for recycled flexible plastic packaging to be produced locally in Australia.
Tanya Barden, CEO of the Australian Food and Grocery Council, said: “Flexible plastic packaging plays an important role – it keeps food fresh, reduces food waste and contributes to product safety. However, Australia currently does not have the capacity to recycle flexible plastic packaging into food grade packaging. Through ACEC, food and grocery manufacturers are taking the lead in creating a circular economy for flexible plastics here in Australia.
Today’s milestone coincides with Cadbury’s 100 year anniversary of Australian manufacturing. Its factory in Hobart produces 60,000 tonnes, or more than 200 million blocks of chocolate for Australia and export markets.
The first family blocks to include recycled soft plastic in their packaging are being delivered to major retailers and supermarkets across Australia this week.
