With the release of its new dry powdered chai tea latte mix in October 2001, marketers at Portland-based Oregon Chai decided they needed a package that would provide an oxygen barrier as well as preserve the product’s intense flavors by preventing flavor migration.
According to the company, the mix is the first instant chai to enter the natural foods market.
The paper/polyethylene/foil/PE pouch from Pechiney Plastic Packaging (Chicago, IL) has helped open up “all kinds of new distribution channels for Oregon Chai,” says Sean Ryan, vp of marketing and production.
Because of the 1.1-oz pouch’s barrier properties, Oregon Chai’s all-natural dry chai mix has a one-year shelf life. The powdered chai is also available in 1.5-oz bags for use with a countertop cappuccino machine, a hot beverage vending machine, or other dispensing unit. Packets are filled at a Chicago-based contract packager.
The dry mix packets were designed for ease of use and portability. They are available for the natural food and retail markets in multipacks, and in two flavors: Original and Spiced Original. The suggested retail price is $3.99 per box. —ALR
