What is a carton?

Food and drink cartons are often referred to as Tetra Paks, in the same way vacuum cleaners are often called Hoovers, but they are actually manufactured by a number of companies including Elopak and SIG Combibloc, as well Tetra Pak. All three companies are members of ACE UK.

As a packaging choice, food and drink cartons are the most sustainable option for their category. They have a low carbon footprint and are on average made from 75% wood fibre, in the form of paperboard, a natural and renewable resource when sourced from responsibly managed forests.

The paperboard, which does not have a wax layer, gives strength, as well as providing a smooth, flat surface for printing. In addition, layers of low-density polyethylene (21% of the carton) prevent leakage, while a very fine layer of aluminium (4%) provides a barrier to light and oxygen. All of which help to reduce food waste.

All of these materials are fully recyclable.