Tetra Pak launches world’s first aseptic paper-based barrier for juice packaging

Tetra Pak, in collaboration with Spanish drinks brand García Carrión, has unveiled the first-ever use of its paper-based barrier technology for juice packaging.

Tetra Pak has launched the first-ever use of its aseptic paper-based barrier technology for juice packaging, in partnership with Spanish beverage producer García Carrión, bringing the innovation to market this month.

The new Tetra Brik Aseptic 200 ml Slim Leaf carton, introduced under García Carrión’s Don Simón brand, is the first juice portion pack globally to replace the traditional aluminium foil layer with this innovative renewable, paper-based barrier. It is also the first carton of its kind available in Spain, representing a major breakthrough for sustainable packaging technology.

Made with up to 80 percent paper, the carton combines the paper-based barrier with plant-based polymers used in the packaging coatings, pushing renewable content to 92 percent. Verified by the Carbon Trust, the new aseptic packaging structure delivers a 43 percent lower carbon footprint compared with a conventional aseptic carton using aluminium foil and fossil-based polymers.

Don José García Carrión, President of García Carrión, said:

We are proud to lead the way in sustainable packaging for the juice category. For more than 135 years, García Carrión has been committed to responsible innovation and respect for the environment.”

Tatiana Liceti, Executive Vice President, Packaging Solutions at Tetra Pak, added:

This launch represents a significant step in our journey towards fully renewable and recyclable packaging. By working closely with our customers, we’re proving that sustainable innovation can scale across markets and categories, while ensuring packaging retains its functionality and quality.”

Tetra Pak said the aseptic paper-based barrier packaging delivers equivalent protection to aluminium foil, safeguarding against oxygen, light, moisture and bacteria while maintaining food safety and comparable shelf life. In markets with established recycling infrastructure, the cartons enable large-scale collection and recycling while improving fibre recovery and processing efficiency.