PepsiCo revamps Sunbites: new packaging and HFSS compliance
Drinks-to-snacks major PepsiCo is revamping its Sunbites crisp range with recycled plastic packaging and non-HFSS status thanks to product reformulation.
The new range is made with 50% recycled plastic, which PepsiCo estimates will reduce Sunbites’ use of virgin plastic by more than 200 tonnes over the next 24 months.
At the same time, the range is now classified as non-HFSS thanks to reformulation efforts and ‘months of trials’ that have resulted in reduced sugar and salt content while maintaining crunch and flavour.
“The Sunbites transformation marks our ongoing commitment to offering products that are better for both people and planet. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made so far to reduce the fossil-based plastic we use and meet growing demand for healthier snacking options without sacrificing taste,” said Gareth Callan, Sustainable Packaging Lead for PepsiCo UK.
Although PepsiCo says it is ‘working hard’ to reinvent its packaging, it believes policymakers can help efforts. “To help us do this at scale, we are urging the UK government to recognise the role that chemical recycling and other emerging mechanical technologies could play in creating demand for food-contact flexible plastics – including the modification of the Plastic Packaging Tax to stimulate a circular economy for packaging in the UK,” added Callan.
Image source: PepsiCo