Amcor & Alter Eco: Recyclable Chocolate Packaging

Global packaging solutions leader Amcor has joined forces with organic food producer Alter Eco to create more environmentally conscious wrapping for the company's chocolate products.

Amcor's collaboration with Alter Eco centres on introducing recyclable paper-based packaging that mirrors the sustainable values of the organic chocolate it contains.

The initiative could help Alter Eco decrease packaging weight whilst maintaining the premium aesthetic and tactile quality expected by consumers.

Developing recyclable packaging solutions

When Alter Eco identified packaging as a key area requiring improvement within its broader environmental objectives, the company sought to move away from its existing cardboard sleeve and inner aluminium foil wrap combination.

Amcor collaborated with both Alter Eco and HALBA, a Swiss chocolate specialist and co-packer, to shift the packaging to AmFiber Performance Paper – Amcor's paper-based recyclable packaging solution.

The redesign presented particular challenges for one product variant, where almonds in the chocolate created an uneven surface texture.

Alter Eco required the new packaging to deliver a smooth finish that would convey the premium quality of the product, an objective that was met using AmFiber.

Beyond aesthetics, the new packaging provides effective protection for both the chocolate and exterior wrapping against water vapour and grease penetration.

Janice Narainsamy, Senior Product Development Engineer at Amcor, says: "Paper-based packaging combines strong shelf appeal with a well-established perception of sustainability.

"With the right barrier performance, it can also deliver the protection needed for demanding applications like chocolate.

"Alter Eco's transition to AmFiber Performance Paper demonstrates this in a real market context, delivering a significant reduction in packaging weight."

The updated packaging delivers up to a 61% reduction in weight when compared to the previous design and can be recycled through France's paper stream.

Exploring Amcor's paper-based range

Amcor's AmFiber portfolio, which includes the Performance Paper utilised for Alter Eco's products, provides paper-based packaging options across multiple product categories.

The solutions employ various technologies to deliver appropriate barrier properties, shelf life and machine performance tailored to each brand's specific product needs.

AmFiber solutions are suitable for applications including baked goods, dairy, meat, snacks, dry beverages and personal care items.

The range has been designed to meet the growing demand from brands seeking to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on product protection or consumer appeal.

Beyond advancing corporate sustainability objectives, the products could offer consumer benefits such as providing a more environmentally responsible option that is straightforward to recycle, whilst delivering a natural appearance and texture.

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Aligning with sustainability commitments

Alter Eco, established in France in 1998, specialises in producing organic and Fairtrade food through partnerships with small-scale producers.

The brand collaborates with 22 cooperatives across 18 countries and markets nearly 80 organic and Fairtrade products throughout France, spanning coffee, chocolate, tea, cereals and spreads.

The partnership with Amcor advances Alter Eco's wider environmental ambitions, including its mission to create chocolate that develops within thriving ecosystems using compostable packaging.

In 2024, the company decreased its transportation emissions by more than 50% through strategic improvements in upstream and downstream logistics operations.

Additional goals include supporting sustainable sourcing of premium cacao and the long-term wellbeing of farming communities.

According to the company, 75% of Alter Eco's cacao beans originated from dynamic agroforestry systems in 2024, demonstrating its dedication to a resilient and regenerative supply chain.

The brand has guided 573 farmers towards regenerative agriculture practices, prioritising enhanced soil health, increased biodiversity and strengthened ecosystem resilience.

Anne Descarsin, R&D Pack Manager for Alter Eco, says: "This project illustrates our commitment to innovation, combining reduced environmental impact with uncompromising quality.

"Designing a thinner packaging that still protects the chocolate and preserves its organoleptic qualities is a true technical challenge and a major step forward for Alter Eco."