Blue Bunny, in collaboration with Berry Global, transitions to clear polypropylene pints for its Twist Cones, enhancing recyclability and showcasing product layers. This shift from paperboard addresses recycling challenges and improves supply chain efficiency.
Berry Global Group, Inc. and Wells Enterprises, Inc. are leading a significant shift in the ice cream industry with their commitment to sustainable packaging. Berry Global, a global leader in innovative packaging solutions, collaborates with Wells Enterprises, the largest privately held ice cream manufacturer in the U.S. Together, they are introducing new, recyclable packaging for Blue Bunny ice cream, setting a new standard in the industry.
The Shift to Plastic Packaging
As summer heats up and National Ice Cream Month brings new frozen treats, Blue Bunny, a key player in the ice cream market, is expanding its Twist Cones line with a new packaging solution. Wells Enterprises has moved from traditional paperboard to clear plastic polypropylene pints. This change reflects a broader trend in the industry towards materials that offer both practical and environmental benefits.
The new pints, which mirror the brand’s popular 48-ounce scoopable version, are designed to provide a better consumer experience by showcasing the layered ice cream contents through translucent packaging. This visibility not only enhances the product’s appeal but also aligns with growing consumer demand for transparency in food packaging.
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Advantages of Plastic Over Paperboard
The traditional paperboard packaging for ice cream faces notable recyclability challenges. Paperboard containers often include a thin polymer layer to prevent moisture damage, which complicates the recycling process. Many recycling programs exclude these containers due to their mixed-material composition, leading to inconsistent recycling outcomes. The 2023 Carton Council Design Guide and Sustainable Packaging Coalition indicate that paperboard ice cream cartons are frequently labeled as “Not Yet Recyclable.”
Polypropylene (PP) plastic, used in the new Blue Bunny pints, presents a more straightforward recycling solution. The pints are made from widely recyclable PP and feature a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) lid, which simplifies the recycling process compared to plastic-lined paperboard. Berry Global emphasizes the role of such innovations in meeting sustainability demands and contributing to cleaner communities.
Environmental and Economic Impact
The switch to PP plastic packaging addresses not only recyclability concerns but also supports environmental sustainability by improving supply chain efficiency. The new pints are designed for nest ability, which reduces wasted space during transportation and storage. This design optimization decreases the need for truckload shipments, contributing to lower carbon emissions and reduced environmental impact.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the new packaging is expected to enhance Blue Bunny’s market presence. The Twist pints, available in seven flavors including Chocolate Vanilla, Strawberries & Cream, Cookies & Cream, Candy Bar, Mint Chocolate, Blu’s Birthday Cake, and Cherry Chocolate, are distributed across major U.S. retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, Food Lion, Albertson’s, Safeway, and Publix.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
The move from paperboard to plastic for ice cream packaging reflects a broader trend within the industry. As sustainability becomes an increasingly critical factor, many brands are exploring plastic alternatives that offer better recyclability and environmental benefits. Blue Bunny’s decision sets a precedent for other companies looking to align with evolving consumer expectations and regulatory pressures.
Berry Global’s collaboration with Wells Enterprises highlights a successful example of how partnerships between packaging innovators and food manufacturers can drive industry change. This partnership not only underscores the importance of sustainable packaging but also paves the way for future innovations in the sector.
Blue Bunny’s transition to recyclable plastic pints represents a significant advancement in ice cream packaging. By addressing recyclability challenges and optimizing supply chain efficiency, Wells Enterprises and Berry Global are setting a new standard in the industry. This shift reflects a broader movement towards sustainable packaging solutions and demonstrates the positive impact of innovative collaborations on both the environment and consumer experience.
