A Sustainable Catch: New Recyclable Cardboard Prawn Boxes Replace Styrofoam
As Australians prepare for a seafood-filled summer, a groundbreaking packaging innovation is set to make celebrations more sustainable. In partnership with seafood producer Tassal, packaging leader Visy has introduced locally made, fully recyclable cardboard boxes for fresh prawns—eliminating the need for expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers, commonly known as Styrofoam.
Traditionally, prawn packaging has relied on EPS, a material notorious for being difficult to recycle and harmful to the environment when littered. Each year, an estimated 100,000 EPS boxes are used to transport prawns to retailers, seafood markets, and wholesalers across the country. Now, Visy's new cardboard solution—crafted from up to 74% recycled content—offers a more sustainable alternative without compromising quality.
The recyclable boxes are produced at Visy’s Carole Park facility in Ipswich, Queensland, before being packed with fresh prawns at Proserpine. The design ensures temperature control and structural integrity even when exposed to moisture, maintaining freshness from ocean to table.
Keeping It Fresh, Keeping It Local
Visy’s Executive General Manager for Fibre Packaging, Adrian Dalgleish, highlighted the dual benefits of sustainability and food safety.
"By working closely with Tassal, we have developed a purpose-built box that maintains temperature and structural integrity while eliminating waste. This is a major win for both consumers and the environment," Dalgleish said.
"Manufacturing these recyclable boxes locally also supports Australian jobs and ensures we can quickly respond to market needs with the most extensive network of corrugated box plants in the country."
A Win for Seafood Lovers and Sustainability
Tassal’s General Manager of Marketing and Innovation, Libby Williams, emphasized the significance of this shift for the seafood industry.
"Our new 10kg cardboard prawn box is a game-changer. It allows us to utilize recyclable packaging while maintaining the same freshness and quality Australians expect," Williams said.
In collaboration with Visy, Tassal conducted rigorous market trials to ensure the packaging meets industry standards for durability, insulation, and moisture resistance.
With this initiative, seafood lovers can enjoy their favorite summer treat knowing they’re making a more environmentally responsible choice. By replacing hard-to-recycle EPS with a locally produced, recyclable alternative, Visy and Tassal are leading the way in sustainable seafood packaging.