DS Smith and Veetee work together to remove over 50 tonnes of problem plastic

DS Smith has partnered with Veetee to create a fully recyclable rice box with the aim of removing over 50 tonnes of plastic from supermarket shelves.

Veetee Rice said its dry rice pack is a sector-leading solution that removes the need to use plastic bags or standard skillets in its packaging, with a box lid that can be removed, used as a measure, and then reseals the pack for ease of storage.

As one of the UK’s largest rice companies, Veetee’s pioneering solution is a fully recyclable fibre-based rice box with a portion measure.

FTSE 100 sustainable packaging company DS Smith worked closely with Veetee and its design brief to create a product that is not only friendlier on the environment but makes it simple for customers to measure portions using a replaceable box lid. The concept of incorporating the portion measure is unique to the sector, solving a consumer problem and helping the brand to stand out from its competitors, according to the company.

Dave Ellerington, head of design & innovation and business development at DS Smith Packaging UK & Ireland said both companies share the goal of reducing the use of harmful plastics and giving consumers truly sustainable options.

“We were able to use our unique circular design principles and metrics in the development of this design to ensure the final product is convenient for customers as well as being sustainable,” he said. “Our work with Veetee has once again been able to show how packaging is vital for brands who are looking to become more circular and reduce their environmental impact.”

James Brett, marketing director for Veetee Group said working with DS Smith has led to them selling a product that is a “premium, sustainable solution and disruptive on the shelf”.

“We’re also proud to be providing an enhanced customer experience through the box’s unique portion measure, meaning the packaging helps our brand stand out from the crowd,” Brett added.

The pack has been developed to be filled on Veetee’s fully automated packing lines and within its existing footprint to maximise and improve supply chain efficiency. Following design, development, and manufacturing in the UK, the rice box was first launched in the US in May 2021 before being sold in major UK supermarkets.

Related content