Picadeli introduces innovative plastic-free paperboard lids, pioneering sustainable packaging for salad bowls

Leading healthy eating outlet Picadeli has partnered with Graphic Packaging International (Graphic Packaging) to develop a new range of plastic-free paperboard lids for its already paper-based salad bowls. The high performance of the new paperboard lids means Picadeli can replace its entire line of plastic lids, eliminating another 250 tons of plastic from its supply chains every year. The lids are also fully recyclable in existing paper waste streams and are made from renewable plant-based fiber sourced from sustainably managed forests.

The innovation offers a secure snap closure system that represents an upgrade on the performance of Picadeli's previous solution. It means the healthy eating giant can now offer a salad bowl and lid combination that is both free of plastic and offers excellent functionality, meeting the demands of consumers.

Picadeli used this opportunity to add bold, playful messages to the lids, enticing consumers to engage with the brand – an important benefit as it is the market-leading healthy fast food outlet in Europe and the US, with over 2000 salad bars across Europe alone. During the development of the new lidding solution, Graphic Packaging optimized the design to ensure it remained rigid in chilled and moisture-rich environments.

"We're honored to play a part in the sustainability efforts of brands like Picadeli every day," said Åke Larsson, managing director of Graphic Packaging Tibro AB - the site involved in designing and producing the innovation. "Only by developing truly excellent fiber-based packaging can we make the difference needed to secure a brighter future for our planet, and it's a challenge that everyone at Graphic Packaging is proud to rise to."

Welcoming the partnership, Henrik Åkerman, Head of Sourcing and Supply Chain at Picadeli, said, "We value the health of our planet as much as we value healthy eating. We are committed to preserving as many of our planet's precious resources as possible while also producing high-quality, functional packaging for our consumers to enjoy. With that in mind, we are delighted to introduce this new lid to our packaging. It fulfills all our needs and helps us reduce the amount of plastic in our portfolio, in line with modern consumer demands."