Revolutionizing Food Packaging: The 100 Percent Recyclable Nutella Jar

MrSmith Studio's Innovative Design Wins Silver A' Packaging Design Award

Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue. In response, MrSmith Studio embarked on a mission to eliminate plastic from food containers. The result is the first-ever Nutella package that is 100% recyclable. The design retains the quality of the product while significantly reducing its environmental impact.

The unique properties of this design lie in its materials. The jar is made of glass, a material with the highest recyclability characteristics, as it can be reused indefinitely. The aluminum seal, essential for preserving the product's quality, is recycled along with cans. The paper lid, which is recyclable with paper, eliminates the need for labels as it is printable.

The design was realized using pressure moulded glass, printed moulded paper for the lid, and laminated aluminium for the seal. Despite its innovative design, the package does not require any changes in the way customers interact with it. The paper lid preserves the cream and provides graphic and nutrition values, making it easier to dispose of and removing the need for labelling.

The development of this project took approximately six months and was carried out in the Milano, Alba, and Napoli areas. Research on client's filling line procedures, materials, suppliers, and printing techniques formed the foundation of the design process. The biggest challenge was finding a solution that did not require substantial investments or changes on the client's filling line. The paper lid seamlessly replaces the old plastic one, simplifying the production line by eliminating the labeling phase.

As an answer to global pollution, MrSmith Studio has designed the first-ever Nutella Package that is fully recyclable. This innovation has brought three advantages: the reduction of components and processes, the elimination of plastic, and total recyclability. Moreover, without the label, the silk-screen decoration on the glass remains totally visible. This design was awarded Silver in A' Packaging Design Award in 2018, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.