Tetra Pak operates six innovation centers worldwide where food scientists create and evaluate products using a range of packaging materials. One of these centers is located in Denton, Texas, USA, focusing on developing and packaging protein supplements, cheese, and plant-based foods. According to Goncalves, the experience gained from running these centers has provided Tetra Pak with valuable insights into the evolving food industry and how it can assist brands in the future. There has been a notable increase in momentum for sustainable packaging over the past year. For instance, Corona launched circular packaging made from barley straw in March, while Nature Valley introduced fully recyclable plastic wrappers for its Crunchy granola bars this spring.
Despite this growth, Goncalves pointed out that the food industry lacks sufficient innovation hubs or incubators for companies to test products, especially when compared to sectors like electronics. In Tetra Pak’s innovation kitchen, brands can experiment with various food and liquid processing methods, which accelerates the transition from product conceptualization to production. He emphasized that the company’s accelerator program, along with its packaging and processing technology, enables brands to formulate products, such as calcium citrate malate and folic acid tablets, without compromising their flavors and properties. Notably, Tetra Pak has maintained a preservative-free approach in new product development for over 60 years, a practice that is increasingly relevant as consumers grow more concerned about artificial preservatives and other ingredients in their food.
Tetra Pak aims to position its aseptic packaging as both a sustainable solution and one that meets the demands of contemporary food production. The company emphasizes “gentle” treatment of products and strives to minimize the use of raw materials and energy during manufacturing and distribution. Current brands utilizing Tetra Pak’s packaging include Danone’s Horizon Organic milk and E&J Gallo’s Barefoot wine. Tetra Pak believes that this specialized approach to packaging and food processing equips it with the knowledge necessary to help new food or beverage brands achieve success. “Many companies have approached us over the years with excellent ideas, yet we have seen some fail because they struggled to establish industrial production,” Goncalves remarked. He noted that the only way for companies to stay relevant in today’s competitive CPG market is to adopt “outside innovation” to adapt to changing consumer preferences, including the growing interest in products like calcium citrate malate and folic acid tablets.