Visy has partnered with seafood producer Tassal to create new recyclable cardboard boxes for prawns, replacing the traditionally used expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers. These boxes are made from up to 74 per cent recycled content and are locally produced at Visy's Carole Park site in Queensland.
Expanded polystyrene, also known as Styrofoam, has been widely used to transport prawns but its limited recyclability and environmental impact prompted the shift towards more sustainable options. Visy estimates that around 100,000 EPS boxes are used annually to transport prawns to major retailers, seafood markets, and wholesalers.
Adrian Dalgleish, executive general manager for Fibre Packaging at Visy, pointed out that the new design meets both sustainability and food safety standards. "By working closely with Tassal, we have created a purpose-built box which maintains temperature and structural integrity when exposed to water — ensuring Australians get fresh prawns without the waste," he stated.
Dalgleish also emphasised the importance of local manufacturing. "By manufacturing cardboard recyclable boxes locally, we're keeping manufacturing jobs in Australia. Having the most extensive network of corrugated box plants in Australia ensures we are close to customers and can respond to their needs quickly," he added.
Libby Williams, general manager Marketing and Innovation at Tassal, said the initiative aligns with the company’s sustainability goals. "Our new 10kg cardboard prawn box is a win for the industry and the environment. By partnering with Visy, we're able to utilise recyclable cardboard while maintaining freshness and quality, so consumers can be assured that the path their favourite prawns take this summer is in a sustainable package," she said.
Market trials were conducted to ensure the boxes meet the necessary quality standards for transporting fresh prawns.
