INDIA – Ball Corporation has teamed up with Indian company CavinKare to launch retort aluminium cans for milkshakes, marking a significant step in sustainable packaging for the dairy sector in India.

This collaboration leverages Ball Corporation’s expertise in eco-friendly packaging solutions to meet the increasing demand for ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.

The new retort two-piece aluminium cans will be used for CavinKare’s milkshake flavours, including Badam, Gulkhand, Rajbog, and Rabri.

Manish Joshi, Commercial Director at Ball Beverage Packaging Asia, highlighted the growth potential in the dairy sector, stating, “Dairy and dairy alternatives have been integral to India and are forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% by 2028. Our focus is on the RTD segment, expected to grow faster due to unique flavour offerings for consumers.”

Joshi further explained, “Ball India has invested in producing retort aluminium cans specifically tailored to the dairy market.

“This portfolio expansion underscores our dedication to product innovation and sustainability, allowing various flavoured dairy products to be packaged in our aluminium cans.”

The aluminium cans are designed to withstand the retort process, ensuring the preservation of flavour, nutrients, and freshness. Their convenience and sustainability also cater to the modern consumer’s on-the-go lifestyle.

Mallikeswaran KG, Business Head of CavinKare’s Beverages Division, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “CavinKare is thrilled to embark on this journey towards sustainable packaging options with Ball Corporation.

“Our transition to aluminium cans underscores our commitment to delivering superior-quality products while minimizing our environmental footprint.”

The lightweight and durable nature of the two-piece aluminium cans offers benefits such as reduced transportation costs and protection against light and oxygen, ensuring optimal product freshness and quality.

Earlier this year, Ball Corporation and Del Monte Foods pledged their commitment to sustainability, aligning with the Government of India’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and reducing the economy’s carbon intensity by 45% by 2030.

Del Monte Foods, a leader in packaged food items, recently transitioned from traditional three-piece tin cans to infinitely recyclable two-piece aluminium beverage cans for its juice products.

Mahesh Kanchan, CEO of Del Monte Foods, explained the rationale behind the shift, stating, “The two-piece aluminium beverage cans are lightweight, which enhances the fuel efficiency of transport vehicles and reduces carbon emissions.

“Additionally, the manufacturing process requires fewer materials, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. Their inherent recyclability makes a substantial contribution to our sustainability efforts.”

The increasing recognition of aluminium cans as a sustainable packaging option is expected to persist, driven by their recyclability and effectiveness in maintaining product freshness.

This sustainable packaging solution aligns with the growing consumer preference for eco-friendly options and is anticipated to drive continued expansion in the beverage industry.

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