Visy has partnered with Tassal to make summer “more sustainable” with new locally made cardboard boxes for prawns.
Traditionally, prawns have been packaged in expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers, commonly known as Styrofoam. An estimated 100,000 EPS boxes are used every year to transport prawns to major retailers, seafood markets and wholesalers.
EPS is, however, said to be difficult to recycle and has a significant environmental impact when littered.
The new boxes – made from up to 74% recycled content – will replace these hard-to-recycle containers. They are being made at Visy’s Carole Park site in Ipswich, Queensland before being backed with fresh prawns at Proserpine.
Visy Executive General Manager for Fibre Packaging Adrian Dalgleish says sustainability and food safety go hand in hand.
“By working closely with Tassal, we have created a purpose-built box which maintains temperature and structural integrity when exposed to water – ensuring Australians get fresh prawns without the waste,” he says.
“By manufacturing cardboard recyclable boxes locally we’re keeping manufacturing jobs in Australia.
“Having the most extensive network of corrugated box plants in Australia ensures we are close to customers and can respond to their needs quickly.”
Tassal General Manager Marketing and Innovation Libby Williams says Tassal prawns are a much-loved part of Aussie summers.
“Our new 10kg cardboard prawn box is a win for the industry and the environment,” she says.
“By partnering with Visy, we’re able to utilise recyclable cardboard while maintaining freshness and quality…”
Visy has worked with Tassal to produce the new cardboard box. Together, they have run market trials to ensure the box meets rigorous quality standards.