Amcor, a global packaging manufacturer, is launching an improved version of its best-selling UniPak 1 kg tub for the dairy sector. The new generation of the pack has been lightweighted in terms of material usage while maintaining the strength, functionality and production line compatibility required in this industry. According to the company, the total mass of the standard pot and lid set is 31.6 g, which is intended to ensure efficient use of material without compromises in stiffness, durability or end user convenience. Compared with the previous container of the same capacity, the reduced weight of the new pack can result in up to a 9 percent reduction in carbon emissions, based on the anticipated production volume.
Polypropylene construction and recyclability
The new lightweight round UniPak tub is made entirely from polypropylene. The use of a mono-material is intended to allow the pack to be classified as recycle-ready and to be recycled in countries with appropriate infrastructure. At the same time, despite the reduced weight, the design retains the required rigidity and mechanical resistance, providing product protection throughout the supply chain.
The company points out that the more compact dimensions of the pack facilitate easier use in the household, for example when opening, storing and reclosing. An important element is also the lightweighted lid manufactured using compression molding technology, which ensures liquid-tightness in contact with liquid products and high top load strength. The lid remains attached to the tub even in most cases of severe squeezing, which reduces the risk of accidental opening. The improved tamper-evident system is intended to further increase product safety and enhance consumer confidence.
Response to the growing 1 kg yogurt segment
The application of the new UniPak version is targeted primarily at dairy products, in particular the segment of yogurts in larger packs. As noted by Katrina Burrett, product line director, containers & reusables at Amcor Global Rigids Packaging Solutions, this market continues to grow. According to her, the 1 kg format is particularly popular in the dairy sector, and the new tub design has been developed to enable food manufacturers to maximize market opportunities while supporting their sustainability objectives.
The company representative emphasizes that the material and design changes are intended to demonstrate that significant lightweighting of packaging does not have to come at the expense of strength or performance. She notes that this is exactly what customers in the dairy processing sector are currently demanding, as they seek solutions that combine material efficiency with quality and logistics requirements.
Decoration options and logistics optimization
UniPak remains compatible with a wide range of packaging decoration technologies, including in-mold labelling. The solution is available in multiple shape variants, including square, rectangular, round and oval packs, which allows the form to be adapted to brand and product category requirements.
The company also highlights shared lid diameters across different formats, which helps reduce the number of stock keeping units and simplifies supply chain management. Each pack has been designed to optimize pallet utilization, resulting in more efficient logistics. An additional protective collar safeguards the lid against mechanical damage during transport and handling, while also improving the stability of stacked tubs.
