Consistent with P&G Ambition 2030 a commitment to achieve 100 percent recyclable or reusable packaging, Oral Care and Crest toothpaste will be fabricated from high-density polyethylene. This material is compatible with existing recycling technologies where collection programs exist. Procter & Gamble has obtained recognition from the North American Association of Plastic Recyclers for the proposed change in packaging. Tubes are converted into quality post-consumer, high-density polyethylene resin used to make new plastic bottles.
The selection of recyclable material by Procter & Gamble illustrates a growing trend among manufacturers towards sustainable packaging. This represents a challenge to the egg industry to either reuse or recycle egg cartons and outer packaging. Eggs represent a special set of requirements to manufacturers of packaging material since transport requires protection from physical damage extending from the plant to the shelf and then on to the consumer’s refrigerator. Apart from physical damage, considerations such as compatibility with grading and robotic packing, condensation and possible contamination are inherent to the design of cartons in addition to appearance, visualization of quality at point of sale, and suitable surfaces for advertising and nutrient content. With a price-sensitive industry cost is also emerging as a significant determinant especially for generic eggs. It is evident that in the future innovative materials will be used for egg cartons including high-density polyethylene.