Mondelēz replaces PET cookie trays with FSC Paper, Cuts 2,200T of plastic

EUROPE – Mondelēz International has replaced rigid PET trays with FSC-certified paper trays for over 115 cookie products across eight European brands, removing 2,200 tonnes of virgin plastic annually in the company’s largest European bakery sustainability initiative.

The new trays have been implemented across LU, Milka, Granola, Cadbury, Marabou, Chips Ahoy!, Lacta and Freia brands in 25 markets including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Poland, Spain and the Nordics. 

The move covers around 28,000 tonnes of cookies produced annually and represents an 80 percent reduction in plastic packaging compared to the original format. 

The initiative builds on the incorporation of approximately 80 percent recycled PET into trays for brands such as Milka, Oreo, Cadbury and Chips Ahoy!.

Paper Tray Transition and PPWR Compliance

The FSC-certified paper trays are fully recyclable in existing paper streams, supporting circular economy goals and helping Mondelēz meet upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation requirements. 

The transition follows earlier work in the brand’s packaging formats, including Cadbury’s Easter Mini Eggs in 65 percent recycled plastic and the use of advanced recycling technology for Cadbury Dairy Milk’s 80 percent certified recycled flexible plastic packaging.

The paper tray development required extensive testing to ensure product protection and shelf life, with the material providing the necessary durability for cookies during transport and retail display while reducing reliance on virgin plastics.

Industry Collaboration and Recycling Innovation

Earlier this year, the company collaborated with Amcor to wrap Cadbury’s 31.9g, 74g and 256g Mini Eggs bags in 65 percent certified recycled plastic packaging for Easter. 

This summer, Mondelēz worked alongside Amcor, LyondellBasell and Taghleef Industries to implement 75 percent chemically recycled content into the flexible packaging for Marabou chocolate bars. 

By using LyondellBasell’s CirculenRevive polymers, Mondelēz aims to align with recycled content mandates under the PPWR. 

The paper tray transition is the single largest packaging sustainability initiative ever undertaken in the company’s European bakery category. 

The initiative demonstrates how major food manufacturers can transition from virgin plastic to paper-based solutions at scale while maintaining product quality and consumer acceptance across multiple brands and markets.

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