Elopak’s new milk packaging system called Eco, designed to use fewer raw materials for a lower carbon footprint of up to 10%, is in beta site production in Austria with the Pinzgau Milch brand.
The carton pack is distinguished by two curved front panels and a more ergonomic grip, says the company.
According to Elopak’s Martin Wieser, project manager Eco.packaging, the pack was conceived to be kinder to the environment, for improved functionality and a ‘need for cost efficiencies in a highly price pressured market’.
Using a lighter board and a lightweight closure – Elo-Cap UE light – it is estimated that for every one million blanks, 5-15 tonnes of CO2 can be saved.
The carton is designed with side and front score lines to create the Eco Grip. An Eco Activator E-PS82 is installed on the conveyor downstream from the filling machine to activate the score lines and form the carton. The score lines are to create a slimmer profile and direct any bulging through the front panel for a different shaped carton on shelf.
The first Eco cartons are being produced in Austria for Pinzgau Milch for fresh and ESL milk. This is a beta site where the new concept is undergoing mechanical and consumer testing. Market research is being carried out using on-carton sticker that asks consumers to go online and comment on the new carton.
There is a strong preference for the new carton, which is very suitable for the high quality, organic and GMO free product, says Mr Wieser.
“There is no need for heavy investment or lengthy set up time, the only requirement is the installation of the Eco Activator which can be easily integrated within existing Elopak filling lines. It has an on/off switch so producers can use the line for other carton configurations which gives important flexibility in production operations,” adds Elopak’s technical project manager Peter Adler.
