Mars, Inc. has partnered with Berry Global to transition the pantry jars for its M&M’s, Skittles, and Starburst confectionery brands to 100% recycled plastic packaging, exclusive of jar lids. Says Berry, this achievement advances the ongoing collaboration between itself and Mars to develop packaging made with recycled content, and builds on a previous launch of the pantry jars with 15% recycled plastic in 2022. The updated jars are now rolling out across the country.
The easy-grip jars, most likely made of PET (the 2022 jars were reported as using PET), are widely recyclable and come in three sizes: 60, 81, and 87 oz. This move to 100% rPET will eliminate more than 1,300 metric tons of virgin plastic annually—equivalent to the weight of about 238 African elephants.
The certified food-grade PCR material used for the jars is made from recycled plastics collected from consumers. “This option helps prevent plastic waste from ending in landfills, decreases virgin plastic consumption, and reduces emissions while promoting a circular economy,” says Berry. “For instance, once these pantry jars are empty of treats, a consumer can place the lid back on the container and put it in a recycling bin—the plastic can then be used to make new products.”
As part of its Sustainable Packaging Plan, Mars has been redesigning its packaging portfolio to reduce plastic packaging and redesign packaging to ensure it can be reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Mars has been partnering with Berry since 2017 to innovate sustainable packaging.