Diplom-Is triumphs with innovative ice cream packaging

The International Ice Cream Consortium (IICC) has awarded the packaging of Royal ice cream by Diplom-Is with the prestigious annual award for the best packaging solution. This recognition highlights a series of design and material innovations aimed at improved recyclability and production efficiency. A decisive factor for the award was the introduction of plastic-free, non-carbon containing materials in the packaging. Unlike conventional carbon black, which is difficult for recycling systems to detect, the new material is compatible with near-infrared scanners used in waste sorting. This change enables more effective recycling of the packaging. According to Almantas Dubra, packaging developer at Diplom-Is, the switch to non-carbon black has made up to 130 tons of plastic recyclable annually. The material features a special pigment blend that optimizes detection in the recycling process. The design of the Royal packaging was also modified to address production inefficiencies. A new container design prevents individual boxes from sticking together during manufacturing, an issue that previously contributed to plastic waste. Since the introduction of this modification, Diplom-Is has seen a significant reduction in waste. Dubra remarked, "We are constantly striving for improvements, and our work on the Royal product line is an excellent example of this." This development reflects broader efforts in the food industry to improve the sustainability of packaging. Materials and designs that facilitate recycling and reduce production waste are increasingly considered essential to achieving environmental goals. As recycling technology advances, similar innovations in various sectors could become the standard in packaging design.