Marks & Spencer’s Launches Chocolate Packaging- Which Can Dissolve in Water!
Marks and Spencer’s entire Swiss Chocolate Collection range has new packaging which is not only 100% compostable, but will also disappear completely if placed under a running tap!The trays are made of plantic, a material made from starch and is ideal for home composting, which M&S first tried in 2007. When they received positive feedback from customers, it was decided that they’d use the material for their Christmas chocolate range and another Christmas favourite, mince pies!
In the new chocolate boxes, the outer layer is made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified cardboard, while the mat that sits on top is made from greaseproof paper and is also fully recyclable. The only material not compostable will be the plastic film wrapped around the box. This is made from PP – recyclable but not currently collected in Britain.
Helene Roberts, head of packaging at M&S, said: "This is a fantastic step forwards for food packaging – we know our customers really want to be responsible and using plantic means they can enjoy a delicious box of chocolates without the worry of what to do with the leftover tray – they can just throw it on their compost heap."
Once on the compost heap, the plantic tray will take around three weeks to break down completely. If the tray is put under water it will dissolve in a matter of minutes.
Packaging experts and scientists believe it has the potential to revolutionise the mainstream confectionery packaging market.
So not only is it better for the environment, but also one less thing to feel guilty about when we’ve ate yet another box of chocolates over Christmas!
