In a landmark move for sustainability, SDC is initially launching its organic white milk in SIG Terra Alu-free + Full barrier. This packaging material, developed by SIG, is the world’s first full-barrier aseptic carton without an aluminium layer, yet it provides the same full-barrier protection and long shelf life of up to 12 months as conventional aseptic cartons.
The removal of the aluminium layer represents a massive environmental win, and includes improving carbon reduction as eliminating aluminium substantially reduces the product’s overall environmental impact. Aluminium accounts for only about 5% of a standard aseptic carton’s weight, and contributes approximately 25% of its carbon footprint.
The carton also features enhanced recyclability as SIG Terra Alu-free + Full barrier replaces the aluminium with a high-performance, ultra-thin polymer, simplifying the structure to just two main materials: FSC-certified paperboard and polymers. This streamlined design is fully compatible with South Korea’s existing recycling infrastructure.
The innovation has earned the first-ever recyclable grade from Korea’s recyclability grading system for aseptic cartons. This allows the packs to be collected and recycled alongside chilled gable top cartons, which currently boast a 10 times higher recycling rate in Korea than conventional aseptic options.
“This is more than just an incremental improvement – it’s a game-changer for the industry,” said Hans Cho, country manager at SIG Korea.
SIG engineered the solution to run on existing SIG filling lines, requiring only minor adaptations, and maintains a high-speed output of up to 24,000 packs per hour.
This is the next milestone in SIG’s work, building on the success of SIG Terra Alu-free, introduced in 2010. By expanding its alu-layer-free options to include a full barrier, SIG has made this highly sustainable solution available for a wider range of oxygen-sensitive products, including juices, flavoured milk, and plant-based beverages.
SDC’s adoption is a significant step, according to SDC president & CEO Jinsup Moon, who stated: “By adopting SIG Terra Alu-free + Full barrier, we are taking a significant step toward enhanced recycling and supporting Korea’s drive for a circular economy.”
The launch moves SIG closer to its ambitious goal of developing an aluminum-layer-free, full-barrier aseptic carton with at least 90% paper content by 2030.