Quaker Oats switches to paper packaging for porridge pots
Quaker Oats has rolled out new paper packaging across its entire range of porridge pots.
The move is set to reduce the brand’s use of virgin plastic by up to 200 tonnes each year [calculated by reference to the estimated volume of Quaker pots to be manufactured in 2023] and make it easier for people to recycle their pots alongside other paper packaging at home or on the go.
While Quaker porridge pots were previously recyclable, the plastic inner packaging had to be separated from the card sheath for recycling. The switch to paper means consumers now only need to rinse and recycle one piece of packaging, making the process much simpler.
With Quaker Oats representing almost half (47%) of the UK porridge pot market [source: Nielsen], the new packaging will deliver a significant reduction in the virgin plastic used in porridge pots sold across the country.
The new paper pots will be available on shelves in all major retailers from this month.
It is the latest in a series of packaging changes announced by Quaker’s parent company PepsiCo this year. Last month, PepsiCo brand Walkers launched new paper outer packaging across its full Walkers Baked multipack range and has also recently trialled bagless multipacks for Snack A Jacks.
It forms part of PepsiCo Positive, the company’s health and sustainability transformation plan, which includes an ambition of reaching net zero emissions by 2040.
Gareth Callan, sustainable packaging lead at PepsiCo UK and Ireland, said: “Quaker Oats was one of the first branded porridge pots on the market, so we’re proud to also be leading in packaging innovation and plastic reduction. We know convenience is a key factor in driving recycling rates, which is another important reason for launching this new packaging, and we’re pleased to be making it as easy as possible for Quaker fans to recycle their pots, wherever they are.”
