Nestlé opens packaging research institute
Nestlé has officially inaugurated the Institute of Packaging Sciences. It is the first of its kind in the food industry. With the new institute, the company can accelerate the introduction of functional, safe and environmentally friendly packaging solutions, the company explains.
Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider said at the inauguration, “None of our packaging should end up as waste in landfills or the environment. This is why we are introducing reusable packaging solutions and pioneering environmentally friendly packaging materials. We also support the development of local recycling infrastructures and deposit systems to ensure a waste-free future. With the Institute of Packaging Sciences, we will be able to make the development of sustainable packaging solutions even more effective in all business areas and markets.” The Institute is part of the basic research facility at the Nestlé Research Centre in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences focuses on specific areas of science and technology. These include reusable packaging, simplification of complex packaging materials, recycled packaging materials, high performance barrier papers and bio-based, compostable and biodegradable materials. For example, the Nestlé Institute is researching paper-based materials and biodegradable plastics. A monitoring other projects a seawater degradable, recyclable water bottle is being developed in cooperation with Danimer Scientific.
Stefan Palzer, CTO of Nestlé, said, “Reducing plastic waste and fighting climate change through state-of-the-art technology and product design are priorities for us. Nestlé experts are working with our development centres, suppliers, research institutes and start-ups to develop and test new environmentally friendly packaging materials and systems.” Sander Defruyt, New Plastics Economy Lead at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, commented on the opening, “Nestlé was one of the first companies to sign the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment and set concrete targets for eliminating plastic waste and pollution at source.” Nestlé says it is already making progress on implementing its packaging commitments by 2025 and has launched new packaging solutions. For example, in less than 12 months, Nestlé packaging experts and suppliers developed products in recyclable paper packaging such as Nesquik All Natural cocoa powder and Yes brand snack bars.
