SWITZERLAND – SIG Holdings AG, the Switzerland based aseptic carton packaging and filling machines provider has developed an aluminium-free, microwaveable hot drinks carton pack, ‘Heat&Go’ targeting particularly Asia where on-the-go consumption is rising.
The new Heat&Go aseptic pack replaces aluminium foil, has a high-barrier film and a light-blocking pigment thus protecting the product from oxygen ingress, flavor migration, water and light.
With the carton pack, hot drinks can be heated in a microwave found in a vending machine, store, café, home or office.
SIG noted the pack is suitable for still drinks, low viscosity, sensitive, enhanced juice and liquid dairy beverages which have seen a growing demand around the world as they offer convenience for the ever-becoming busy lifestyles.
A research by SIG indicated that in China, 72% of consumers are dissatisfied with current heating methods for on-the-go products and are looking for new methods of fast and convenient heating.
According to the company, the packaging innovation was particularly targeted at the Asian market, where differentiation and innovation are key to attracting today’s on-the-go consumer.
“Our new high-barrier aseptic carton Heat&Go can be heated in the microwave up to 60oC, with a recommended temperature of 50oC, by allowing brands and co-packers to launch innovative nutritional hot beverage products into new channels and categories,” said Ali Kaylan, SIG vice president of global marketing.
The packs can be produced on existing SIG filling machines allowing them to run standard and aluminium-free material structures.
According Global Data, demand for hot drinks is estimated to increase by 15% in value, and by 22% in volume between 2014-2019.
