Articles

As an alternative to glass, producers are increasingly experimenting with plastics which are versatile and have a comparatively high strength-to-weight ratio. Plastics can also use a high level of recycled content, and increasingly both PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and HDPE (high density polyethylene) packaging is collected for recycling. A PET bottle weighing in at just 54g is around 440g lighter than the average glass bottle.

In addition to traditional style bottles, drinks producers are also experimenting with ‘stand up pouches’ and other container formats. Research claims that such alternative packaging options can present as much as a 60% reduction in life cycle CO2 emissions in comparison to a standard glass bottle. Concerns about plastics’ ability to prevent products degrading are being addressed as product innovation continues.

Consumer acceptance is likely to be a major factor in driving this area of innovation in the wine and spirit market.