• Low risk: cardboard (Image: Orora)
    Low risk: cardboard (Image: Orora)
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The Real Media Collective has published research which shows that the coronavirus will live for much shorter time on carboard than on plastic packaging, which will carry the virus for two or three times longer.

The Australasian Paper Industry Association and The Real Media Collective, working collaboratively, have reviewed research and commentary in specific regard to the coronavirus lifespan on paper and other surfaces.

The research showed that viable coronavirus could be detected for up to 24 hours on cardboard, compared to up to two to three days on plastic-based packaging. However, the conclusion of the research is that all cardboard, and through this, assumption of paper or fibre-based products including mail, as well as polypropylene, and through this, assumption of low-grade plastics such as polyethylene for magazine wraps, carries a low risk of contamination.

When it comes to mail, the research revealed that as the print and mail processing time generally takes more than three days, mailbox deliveries including letters, magazines, and packages are safe.

The US Centre of Disease Control and Prevention said, “In general, because of poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces, there is likely very low risk of spread from products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks at ambient temperatures."

Food & Drink Business

As the Australian functional beverage market continues to grow, emerging companies are still finding places to slot in. Alcohol recovery drink, Dodge, hit stores in mid-2022, and has taken off across the Asia-Pacific region with its science-backed formula and striking branding. Food & Drink Business spoke with co-founder, Braeden Leahy, about the product and plans for the future.

The former deputy chief of staff to the federal communications minister, Amanda Watson, has been appointed CEO of the Brewers Association of Australia (BAA).  Watson starts in the role on 14 July and replaces John Preston, who had been in the role for five years.

The Victorian government has invested $160,000 to support the sustainability and profitability of the state’s wine industry, matched by $240,000 from Wine Australia. The funds will help Wine Victoria to provide the wine industry with the knowledge, tools and resources needed to improve practices and outcomes.