USA – Huhtamaki, a leader in molded fiber packaging technology, is unveiling a new range of fiber-based egg cartons made entirely from 100% recycled materials aimed at egg producers across the United States.
This introduction offers a sustainable alternative to the traditional foam egg packaging prevalent in the U.S. market.
Crafted entirely from recycled materials, these new cartons have been designed as an eco-conscious replacement for the commonly used polystyrene foam in the egg industry.
Currently, legislation banning the use of expanded polystyrene packaging has been implemented in 12 states across the country.
This material is frequently utilized in crafting foam ‘peanuts’ for packaging protection, coolers, foodservice cups, plates, and egg packaging.
Last year, Huhtamaki announced its intention to invest US$100 million in expanding its 250,000ft² molded fiber manufacturing plant in Hammond, Indiana, US.
The company’s cutting-edge technology will facilitate the production of a comprehensive line of customizable fiber-based egg cartons, using materials sourced from North America.
These cartons also offer increased branding space for clients and come in an array of colors.
Tyler Hodges, Sales Manager at Huhtamaki North America, expressed, “We anticipate the demand for egg cartons in the US to reach 4.3 billion packs by 2025.
“This market size presents a significant opportunity for egg producers seeking to transition to fiber-based egg cartons in advance of legislation and bans on polystyrene foam packaging.
“Leveraging our extensive global expertise in molded fiber product design and operations, Huhtamaki is fully prepared to meet the needs of the US market.”
In a related development, TekniPlex held a groundbreaking ceremony in June for its new molded fiber facility geared towards producing egg cartons.
The facility will manufacture compostable and biodegradable fiber-based cartons using recycled raw materials processed through a pulping machine, employing TekniPlex’s proprietary technology across all production lines.
Situated in Van Wert, Ohio, the 200,000-square-foot facility will produce various products beyond egg cartons, including fruit trays and wine carriers.
Operations for this multimillion-dollar plant are slated to commence in early 2024, marking TekniPlex’s eighth molded fiber plant.
According to Eldon Schaffer, CEO of TekniPlex, this new plant will amalgamate TekniPlex’s fiber capabilities with technology platforms acquired through recent acquisitions.
Over the last 15 months, TekniPlex has acquired three specialty molded fiber solutions companies, including Keyes Packaging Group in Wenatchee, Washington, Fibro Corporation in Tacoma, Washington, and EMATEC based in Mexico.
For all the latest packaging and printing industry news from Africa and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
