Chobani boosts yoghurt packaging sustainability

Chobani Australia has released sustainability-focused packaging for its Gippsland Dairy 160 g products, reducing the plastic per unit by almost half.

The removal of the product’s lid is part of Chobani’s commitment to the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) and the 2025 National Packaging Targets, including to reduce unnecessary or problematic plastics, following the earlier removal of the embedded plastic spoon in 2023.

With all Gippsland Dairy 160 g products transitioning to the new packaging, Chobani is set to remove 95,000 kg plastic from its businesses in 2024 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with sourcing and transporting lids and spoons through its supply chain and to retailers.

The transformation of the product’s packaging is a key milestone in the company’s progress against the 2025 Targets, which form a crucial part of its sustainable packaging roadmap.

Tim Browne, Chobani’s General Manager ESG & General Counsel, said, “Our commitment to sustainability is an ongoing journey — one that demands time, effort and an unwavering dedication to continuous improvement.

“We’ve worked closely with our industry partners to explore innovative approaches to deliver on our commitment in line with the nationally recognised industry targets.

“We’re really proud of this important milestone. As we implement our sustainable packaging roadmap, we hope to make even greater strides towards similar packaging innovations and a more sustainable future.”

APCO CEO Chris Foley, said, “It’s small but impactful changes like this that we need to see more of in the very near future. 2025 is creeping up and we’re delighted to see Chobani on track to deliver on their commitment to the 2025 Targets.”

Available from February 2024, the new packaging design maintains the ‘pot’ look and feel by replicating the former black lid through the product’s artwork. The pot will now feature a black band around the circumference of the top, emulating the lid to ensure the product can be spotted on the shelf.