Detpak has won the APPMA Packaging Design Innovation Award for its Kerbside Recyclable Paper Bag for Fresh Potatoes, at the APPMA Awards of Excellence 2024, presented at a gala dinner in Melbourne during APPEX.
Detpak, a subsidiary of the South Australian third-generation family-owned Detmold Group, has been recognised for developing what it says is Australia’s first kerbside recyclable paper bag for fresh potatoes, in collaboration with national potato and onion producer Mitolo Family Farms and Coles.
The paper-based bag was launched last year following three years of development, for Mitolo’s Gourmandine potato range, reducing plastic usage by 64 per cent, which it says equates to saving 8.2 tonnes less plastic each year.
Detpak says its RecycleMe technology maintains product quality, extends shelf life, and offers kerbside recyclability, aligning with Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation guidelines.
Roman Bolzon, Detpak general manager Sales, said the APPMA award was a great achievement for Detpak, which is aiming to replace all 100 per cent plastic packaging in fresh produce and help set the stage for industry-wide transformation.
“Detpak is proud to be part of a collaborative ground-breaking packaging design solution that is leading a broader shift towards sustainable practices in the grocery sector as consumers become more environmentally conscious,” said Bolzon.
“We are always looking at innovative ways to drive sustainable change across the packaging industry and are continuing to evolve packaging to be better for our environment,” he said.
“We would like to thank APPMA for the award, and sponsor Ranpak, for recognition of our contribution in sustainability and packaging across Australia.”
We spoke to Detpak's Mark Rohrlach at APPEX the day after the winners were announced. See what he had to say here.
See the full list of winners from the night here.
