International Paper launches commercially compostable cold cup with Coke

By Rory Harrington

- Last updated on GMT

International Paper (IP) has expanded its beverage container range with the launch of a commercially compostable cold cup in conjunction with Coca-Cola.

The US company added the new container to its ecotainer​ line, in response to demands from university students for a more environmentally-friendly cold cups. The original ecotainer​, which came to market in 2006, was designed solely for the hot cup segment. IP said it was now the first company “to have an integrated offer of hot and cold paper cups that are made from 100% renewable resources”.

Coating

Both products are commercially compostable, have a smaller environmental footprint than comparable products as well as meeting the ASTM D6400 standard for compostability and being certified by the Biodegradabilty Products Institute (BPI), added IP in a statement.

However, it is the specific coating on the cold cup that allows it to be industrially composted.

“Rather than use a petroleum-based liner, ecotainer products are coated with a plant-based moisture barrier made from Ingeo by NatureWorks,”​ a spokesman said. “Because of this unique lining, the ecotainer cold cup can be commercially composted with food waste, which can help reduce the amount of material going to landfills.”

Consumer demand

Beth McKeithen, marketing manager for International Paper, told FoodProductionDaily.com: “We partnered with both Coke and the University of Washington (UW) to finalise the development and launching of the ecotainer cold cup. Coke was being asked by colleges and universities they supply drinks to for innovative products specifically focused towards their environmental initiatives.

“UW specifically wanted a compostable cup and we are working with Coke as they roll this out to other colleges and universities across the US.”

The company said it worked with Coke to bring the cold cup to “limited markets​” at the end of last year but explained the national launch would expand access to the cup, scheduled to be available shortly as a stock print or with customised artwork.

John Faraci, Chairman and CEO, International Paper, said: “We are committed to delivering the innovative products our customers want and need while ensuring the responsible stewardship of natural resources today and for generations to come. We are excited to partner with Coca-Cola on the national launch of our ecotainer compostable paper cup specifically created for soft drinks and designed with the environment in mind.”

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