Nestlé Introduces Recyclable Paper PackagingNestlé Introduces Recyclable Paper Packaging

KitKat bars used for innovative trial in Australia

Powder Bulk Solids Staff

January 11, 2023

2 Min Read
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KitKat is introducing recyclable paper packaging as a pilot test for the brand.Image courtesy of Nestlé

KitKat has announced its first trial of innovative new paper packaging on its four-finger 45g bars.

In an exclusive trial with Coles Supermarkets across Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, consumers can now buy KitKat bars featuring the paper wrapper for a limited time. 

Packaging experts at Nestlé's Confectionery Research and Development Center in York, UK adapted and tested the paper, while scaling it up for use on modified high-speed flow wrapping equipment.  

"We are exploring different types of alternative packaging solutions for our confectionary products," said Louise Barrett, head of the Nestlé Confectionery Product Technology Centre in York. "For KitKat, the challenge was to find the right paper packaging solution with a high level of barrier properties to adequately protect the chocolate. We had to maintain the perfect balance between the iconic crispy wafer and smooth chocolate that people know and love, whilst at the same time ensuring the packaging is recyclable in the paper stream."

The trial is a bid to help Nestlé meet its goal of reducing its use of virgin plastics by a third by 2025, which includes using less plastic, recycled plastic, and alternatives to plastic packaging.

“We’re proud to be the first country globally to trial KitKat in paper packaging, as an important step towards reducing our use of virgin plastic," said Nestlé Oceania general manager of confectionery and snacks Chris O’Donnell. "With all packaging innovations, our priority is to ensure we deliver the same delicious KitKat with creamy chocolate and crisp wafer. Our partnership with Coles has made this packaging trial a possibility, where Aussie chocolate lovers can have their say on our innovative KitKat packaging. The feedback we receive on this trial will help shape the next step of giving Aussies their favourite break.”

Coles general manager of grocery Leanne White said, “Coles is thrilled to partner with Nestlé on this important trial which will provide customers the opportunity to have a say on new packaging options and help the company lead the charge in innovative solutions. As part of Coles’ Together to Zero waste ambition, we are committed to reducing plastic packaging wherever possible in Coles supermarkets so we’re really proud to work with fantastic suppliers like Nestlé to trial a new packaging solution for one of Aussies’ favourite chocolate bar.” 

Each bar will include a QR code that customers can scan and then answer a series of questions about the new paper packaging. The packaging can be recycled through kerbside recycling bins that collect and process paper. The trial wrapper has a thin metal barrier film to keep the KitKat fresh and has a recyclable ARL.
 

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Powder Bulk Solids Staff

Established in 1983, Powder & Bulk Solids (PBS) serves industries that process, handle, and package dry particulate matter, including the food, chemical, and pharmaceutical markets.

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