Cabot Creamery's Cheese in Recycled Packaging by Year-End

Key Takeaways

Cabot Creamery to use 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) packaging for its 8-ounce cheese bars by late 2024.
This shift reduces environmental impact through less plastic and lower emissions.
The move aligns with Cabot's commitment to sustainability as a B-Corp.

Cabot Creamery, a farmer-owned cooperative known for its delicious cheeses, is taking a big step towards sustainability.

The company announced a transition to 30% PCR packaging for its popular 8-ounce cheese bars. This sustainable change is expected to be implemented by the end of 2024.

Innovation Funded by Grant

Cabot's move to PCR packaging comes after a comprehensive study funded by a grant from the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC). The study explored various sustainable packaging options, including compostable and fully recyclable films.

Balancing Sustainability with Quality

A crucial aspect of the study involved maintaining the high-quality Cabot cheese is known for. The company partnered with TC Transcontinental Packaging to conduct rigorous testing on factors like shelf life, packaging integrity during transport, and potential changes in texture, flavour, and colour. Also, consumer studies ensured the new packaging would not affect the cheese experience.

PCR Packaging

The study revealed that 30% PCR packaging emerged as the best option. It performed well on production lines, maintained cheese quality, and did not require significant adjustments. This allows Cabot to implement the change smoothly while minimising disruption.

A Step Forward for the Dairy Industry

Cabot's commitment to sustainable packaging highlights dairy industry innovation. By sharing their findings, they enable other processors to follow suit and lessen their environmental impact.

“This is a pivotal moment in our journey to become a greener company, introducing one of the first cheeses in a post-consumer-recycled package,” said CEO David Lynn. “As the first dairy cooperative to achieve B-Corp status, we have a long-held commitment to sustainable practices and this shift to PCR packaging in our 8-ounce bar line represents a major milestone in that commitment.”

Consumer-Driven Change

Sustainability is a top priority for Cabot and its consumers. This switch to PCR packaging reflects their dedication to environmental responsibility while continuing to deliver the delicious cheese everyone loves.