DS Smith's New Fibre-Based Packaging Drives Plastic Reduction

Each punnet is paired with a recyclable flexible film to enhance shelf appeal.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): DS Smith, an International Paper company and a leading producer of fibre-based packaging, has partnered with agricultural cooperative Serele SuperR to phase out ten million plastic tomato packages in favour of recyclable, corrugated cardboard alternatives. The collaboration centers on replacing single-use PET packs with fibre-based punnets made from 100 percent renewable, FSC-certified materials.

DS Smith Collaborates to Replace EPS with Sustainable, Fibre-based Alternative

DS Smith’s design team analyzed Serele SuperR’s existing packaging and developed four corrugated punnet formats tailored for fresh tomato varieties. The redesigned packs are easier to handle on production lines and fully recyclable after use. An angled-corner structure helps hold different cherry tomato types securely while minimizing empty space, improving storage and presentation in retail environments. Each punnet is paired with a recyclable flexible film to enhance shelf appeal.

The three-year rollout has delivered measurable gains. Serele SuperR reports the elimination of ten million plastic trays, a 46 percent reduction in carbon emissions compared with PET packaging, and up to 21 percent lower material consumption without compromising product protection. Logistics efficiency has also improved across retail supply chains.