Walkers is rolling out paper multibag packs for its Snack A Jacks range as it looks to reduce its use of virgin plastic.
The snack firm, part of Pepsico, says that by using the paper outer bags it is set to reduce its use of virgin plastic by 65 tonnes per year.
The outer paper bag can be widely recycled in home recycling bins and collected alongside other paper packaging, Walkers said, and is set to lower greenhouse gas emissions of each pack by 52%.
The new packaging was introduced across Walkers Baked multipacks last year, while the snack company rolled out new packaging made from 50% recycled plastic across its Sunbites range in December last year.
This latest move forms part of PepsiCo Positive, the health and sustainability transformation plan from Walkers’ parent company, which includes a goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2040.
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Across PepsiCo Europe, the company also plans to eliminate fossil-based plastic in crisp and snack bags by 2030. This ambition applies to UK brands including Snack A Jacks, Walkers, Doritos, Quavers, Wotsits, and Pipers, and will be delivered by using 100% recycled or renewable content.
PepsiCo UK packaging sustainability lead Gareth Callan said: “Our outer paper multibag packs are working well on Walkers Baked, giving us the confidence to roll out this format across more of our snacks brands.
“The new packaging will help further reduce our non-fossil plastic use, while also helping to lower our carbon footprint as we work towards our commitment to creating a world where packaging never becomes waste.”
Snack A Jacks marketing manager Hannah Freeman said: “As the UK’s favourite rice cake brand, we’re proud to be introducing even more reasons to love our delicious snacks. Easily recycled with your usual household paper recycling, these new outer packs can be disposed of thoughtfully with little fuss.”
