Quaker Oats has introduced new paper packaging in a move designed to reduce the brand’s use of virgin plastic by 200 tonnes each year.
The change will also make it easier for consumers to recycle the porridge brand‘s pots alongside other paper packaging, both in a home setting and on the go.
While parts of the Quaker pots were previously recyclable, the switch to paper will now allow consumers to only rinse and recycle one piece of packaging, making the process simpler.
With Quaker Oats representing almost half (47%) of the UK porridge pot markets, the new packaging will also lead to a significant reduction in the virgin plastic used in porridge pots across the country.
Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free
Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning
The move to paper packaging is the latest in a series of climate-friendly changes made by Quaker’s parent company, PepsiCo, as part of its health and sustainability plan – PepsiCo Positive.
Last month PepsiCo brand Walkers unveiled a new paper outer packaging across its full Walkers Baked multipack range and then later trialled bagless multipacks for Snack A Jacks.
PepsiCo UK and Ireland sustainable packaging lead Gareth Callan said: “Quaker Oats was one of the first branded porridge pots on the market, so we’re proud to also be leading in packaging innovation and plastic reduction.”
“We know convenience is a key factor in driving recycling rates, which is another important reason for launching this new packaging, and we’re pleased to be making it as easy as possible for Quaker fans to recycle their pots, wherever they are.”