Ball Corporation's expertise steers Del Monte toward a green path with aluminium packaging

USA-based Ball Corporation, a global leader in innovative aluminium packaging, has forged a strategic alliance with Del Monte Foods, a front-runner in the realm of canned fruit juices. This collaboration is not merely a convergence of corporate entities; it symbolises a collective commitment towards achieving the ambitious net-zero emission target set by the Indian Government for 2070.

Del Monte Foods, under the visionary leadership of CEO Mahesh Kanchan, has undertaken a remarkable transformation in the packaging of its beverage products. Departing from traditional three-piece tin cans, the company has embraced the use of infinitely recyclable two-piece aluminium beverage cans supplied by the renowned Ball Corporation.

Mahesh Kanchan elaborated on the brilliant plan: "In recent years, the Indian beverage industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in packaging for juice. This change is much more than catching up with the trend; it mirrors the evolving preferences of the consumers and an increasing environmental consciousness."

"The two-piece aluminium beverage cans, composed of a body and an end, possess a lightweight characteristic, whether they are empty or filled with liquid. This attribute indirectly aids in enhancing the fuel efficiency of transport vehicles, subsequently reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, due to their lightweight nature, the manufacturing process requires fewer materials, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. Furthermore, the cans' inherent quality of being infinitely recyclable makes a substantial contribution to our sustainability efforts," he amplified.

What will this sustainable collaboration bring to the table? 

The collaboration between Del Monte Foods and Ball Corporation not only underscores environmental consciousness but also caters to the evolving preferences of consumers. The two-piece aluminium beverage cans offer a wider canvas for visually appealing HD packaging, elevating the aesthetic appeal of the product.

Kanchan went on to explain: "Our transition to aluminium cans is motivated by the improved consumer experience they offer, especially for fruit beverages. The contents inside cool down more rapidly, and these cans exhibit greater resistance to corrosion."

Manish Joshi, Commercial Director for Asia at Ball Corporation, focuses on their responsibility towards sustainability and the reduction of carbon footprints. He asserted: "As a prominent producer of aluminium beverage cans, we bear responsibility for sustainability and the reduction of our partners' carbon footprint. Given the increasing consumer concerns about environmental pollution and the global shift towards a circular economy, many companies are transitioning to aluminium cans. Infinitely recyclable and economically valuable, aluminium packaging is one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today."

Why aluminium cans are the best choice for a circular economy? 

The intrinsic circularity of aluminium is a testament to its sustainability. Once emptied, an aluminium beverage solution can be recycled and back on store shelves in a mere 60 days. The material's circular nature allows it to be recycled infinitely into the same type of packaging, minimising waste and maintaining its value. Utilising recycled aluminium not only optimises resource utilisation but also saves a staggering 95% of energy compared to using virgin aluminium.

Joshi further explained: "Our two-piece aluminium beverage cans provide a wide range of advantages for our partners and consumers due to their user-friendly attributes. These cans allow the customers to have 360-degree branding, faster cooling, and a modern appearance. Moreover, their ease of portability and disposal further increases their appeal to the end-users."

This paradigm shift towards recognising aluminium cans as a sustainable packaging option is poised to endure. The recyclability and effectiveness in maintaining product freshness position aluminium cans not only as an environmentally conscious choice but also as a remarkably practical solution for a diverse range of beverages. As the world embraces the circular economy, the use of sustainable packaging, particularly in the form of aluminium, emerges as a crucial component in building a material loop, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

If you are interested in learning more about the aluminium packaging sector, please have a look at AL Circle's special report on the same, Aluminium Foils and its End Uses.