Berry Global Group, Inc. has partnered with Mars to transition its pantry jars for M&M’S, Skittles, and Starburst to 100% recycled plastic packaging, excluding lids. This initiative builds upon their 2022 launch, which featured jars with 15% recycled plastic, marking a significant step in sustainable packaging innovation. The updated jars are now being rolled out across the U.S.
The new pantry jars, available in 60-, 81-, and 87-ounce sizes, are widely recyclable and made using mechanically processed post-consumer resin (PCR). This transition will eliminate over 1,300 metric tons of virgin plastic annually, equivalent to the weight of approximately 238 African elephants. The use of PCR helps divert plastic waste from landfills, reduces emissions, and supports a circular economy. Consumers can further contribute by recycling the jars, allowing the material to be repurposed into new products.
Produced at Berry Global’s manufacturing facility, the easy-grip square jars use certified food-grade mechanically recycled resin sourced from curbside collection streams. The collaboration ensures that sustainability efforts do not compromise product quality or aesthetics.
Peter Goshorn, Vice President of Food, Beverage & Spirits at Berry Global, emphasized the importance of scaling recycled materials to support a circular economy. “The ability to deliver products made with recycled materials at scale is crucial. That’s why we’re collaborating with leading brands like Mars to drive responsible business growth without compromising performance or aesthetics,” he stated.
Mars has been redesigning its packaging portfolio under its Sustainable Packaging Plan, aiming to make packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Allison Lin, Global VP of Packaging Sustainability at Mars, highlighted the company’s commitment: “In the world we want tomorrow, no packaging becomes waste, but is instead reused, recycled, or composted. Using recycled content incentivizes improved collection systems and recycling infrastructure, which is essential for a circular economy.”
The partnership between Berry Global and Mars, which began in 2017, continues to push the boundaries of sustainable packaging, aligning with global efforts to reduce plastic waste and enhance recyclability.