PepsiCo Test Paper-Based Packaging for Walkers Baked

PepsiCo claims that its new Walkers brand of crisps outer packaging, which is recyclable and made of paper, is the first flexible packaging for savory snacks in the UK. On over 300,000 six-pack multipacks of two popular Walkers Crisps Baked flavors, including Sea Salt and Cheese and Onion, the original plastic outer wrapping is being replaced with recyclable cardboard.

Rachael Smith, senior marketing manager for Walkers, stated that as a result of the most recent trial, consumers will be able to purchase a selection of Walkers Baked multipacks in outer paper packaging that can be easily and widely recycled as part of regular home recycling. They can’t wait to hear what people think of the packs when they arrive in stores because feedback is so important for helping them provide the best possible experience for customers.

According to Gareth Callan, PepsiCo UK & Ireland’s packaging sustainability head, they are constantly looking into new packaging options that can help them cut down on the use of virgin fossil plastic in order to achieve their broader objectives for sustainable packaging. They are excited to put this paper-based outer material through its paces with their customers after more than two years of development to get a better idea of how it might fit into their future packaging portfolio.

In October of last year, PepsiCo put in $16 million to make food packaging more sustainable. Prior to the Baked pilot, the company launched new cardboard outer packaging for millions of Walkers crisps in 22- and 24-bag multipacks in a trial with UK supermarket Tesco.