History of Tetra Pak

In 1943, Dr. Ruben Rausing, a Swedish innovator, introduced Tetra Pak, a revolutionary packaging solution designed to maximize storage efficiency. The first pyramid-shaped Tetra Classic hit the market, followed by aseptic packaging that extended food shelf life to at least six months without refrigeration. In 1993, Tetra Pak acquired Alfa Laval, expanding its range to include multifaceted plastic and paper packaging.

What Is Tetra Pak Packaging?

Tetra Pak, meaning “four-sided,” originally referred to tetrahedral packaging but now includes octagonal designs like Tetra Prisma. Made from layers of paper, polyethylene, and aluminum, it was first used for milk in Sweden. Aseptic Tetra Pak allows sterilized milk to be stored for up to four months without refrigeration, while pasteurized milk retains a shorter shelf life, similar to bottled milk.

Layered Structure of Tetra Pak

Tetra Pak typically consists of five to six layers:

• Polyethylene (Outer): Prevents environmental moisture ingress.
• Paper: Enhances structural strength.
• Polyethylene (Adhesive): Bonds paper and aluminum layers.
• Aluminum: Blocks oxygen and light to preserve flavor.
• Polyethylene (Inner): Secures layers and protects contents.

Layer thickness varies based on the product’s acidity or alkalinity. For example, sterilized milk requires an aluminum layer, while pasteurized milk may not.

Applications of Tetra Pak

Tetra Pak is widely used for aseptic packaging of dairy products (milk, cream), juices, tomato sauce, and desserts. Its design eliminates the need for preservatives, making it ideal for products like soy milk and UHT milk.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Compact and space-efficient, allowing transport of millions of units per truck.
• Multi-layered design prevents moisture, air, and light ingress.
• Preservative-free storage for extended shelf life.
• Easier storage compared to metal or glass packaging.

Disadvantages

The inclusion of aluminum and polyethylene makes Tetra Pak less recyclable than fully paper-based packaging, slowing the recycling process.

Types of Tetra Pak Packaging

• Tetra Brick: For refrigerated dairy distribution.
• Tetra Classic Aseptic: For liquid foods like juices and sauces.
• Tetra Fino Aseptic: For UHT milk.
• Tetra Prisma Aseptic: Octagonal packaging for specialty drinks.
• Tetra Ricart: For sterilized vegetables and ready meals.