The Tetra Wedge Aseptic Clear 200 Slim container developed by Tetra Pak (www.tetrapak.com) won a prestigious Diamond Award in the DuPont Awards competition largely on the strength of its clarity. It’s believed to be the world’s first transparent aseptic package (see packworld.com/go/c167).
Judges also admired the attractive graphics, the comfortable grip, and the overall appeal of the Tetra Wedge Aseptic Clear package.
First to commercialize the new technology is Mexico City-based Jumex, which launched its 200-mL Nautix line of kid-oriented flavored waters in October 2005. The Nautix line is packaged on a Tetra Pak TBA-19 system similar to those used for foil-based Tetra Wedge packs (see page 94). What makes Nautix special is that it incorporates a plasma deposition of clear silicon oxide (SiOx) on PET film instead of foil as its barrier layer. The 200-mL wedges still have a one-year shelf life like other shelf-stable drink packs that are aseptically filled. But the clarity of the package makes all the difference in the world in setting this product apart and giving it marketing and shelf-impact advantages.
—Pat Reynolds
