The first output of the collaboration is a box containing Fazer’s traditional handmade pralines
Fazer, a global packaging company is committed to continuing the creation of sustainable solutions for the benefit of people and the environment, and packages have their own role to play in this. In 2018, Fazer and Sulapac kicked off a collaboration project with the aim of researching, developing and testing microplastics-free, compostable packaging solutions for foodstuffs. Fazer is the first company with which Sulapac has engaged in the product development of food packaging.
The need for action to combat climate change, preserve biodiversity and overcome other environmental challenges is becoming increasingly urgent. Fazer focuses on reducing emissions and the amount of food waste, develops more and more sustainable packaging, and increases the use of plant-based ingredients in its products. Fazer brings to the market a new box containing handmade pralines. The packaging makes use of the Finland-based Sulapac’s material innovation, which is compostable and free of microplastics. The box will be available in the shop of the Fazer Experience Visitor Centre, in Fazer Cafés, Gateau bakery shops and, online, in the Fazer Store.
The product development of the praline box lasted for almost 18 months. Fazer and Sulapac wanted to come up with an end product which is of premium quality and safe to both humans and the environment. The various phases of the product development included tests on the material’s sensory suitability and the product’s shelf life as well as the design and printing of the final concept.
Fazer is actively involved in discussions concerning the recycling and re-use of packaging materials, and also the development of new kinds of environmentally friendly packaging solutions. The food industry cannot do away with packaging altogether: packaging – including plastic packaging, for the time being – will continue to be needed to protect products, ensure the safety of foodstuffs, increase products’ shelf life and ultimately help reduce food waste, and to provide product information to consumers.
Sulapac is a young Finnish growth company with a mission to save the world from plastic waste. Sulapac develops recyclable materials and products that are entirely free of microplastics and made from renewable raw materials. Sulapac® is an award-winning material innovation made from wood chips and biodegradable binding agents. The wood chips are the forest industry’s side streams and come from sustainably managed forests. Fazer participates in the development of Sulapac® into a packaging material that meets the needs of the food industry increasingly effectively. It is also the first food industry company to use this unique innovation in its packaging.