PepsiCo India, a global consumer packaged goods company, has introduced Pepsi Black 100% rPET bottles (excluding label and cap) – said to be India’s first – in the carbonated beverage category. The launch comes weeks after rival Coca-Cola also launched a similar bottle made from 100% recycled rPET (recycled plastic).
The company says the launch is part of PepsiCo India’s mission to build a positive value chain through a circular, inclusive economy where packaging never becomes waste.
George Kovoor, senior vice president, beverages and sustainability, PepsiCo India said, “We are encouraged by the measures taken by the government to promote a circular economy in India. We are proud to launch the 100% rPET bottles of Pepsi Black. This an important milestone in our sustainability journey, backed by our intent to create a positive value chain and this launch is yet another step in that direction. We shall learn and evolve as we continue our endeavors to build a robust ecosystem while expanding the use of recycled content in our packaging.”
The Pepsi Black rPET bottles are made from 100% recycled plastic and are manufactured in India in partnership with Srichakra Polyplast (India) with bottling partner Varun Beverages.
Driven by its ‘Winning with pep+’ philosophy, the company recognizes the importance of taking comprehensive efforts to reduce, recycle and re-invent its packaging. PepsiCo India says it is dedicated to developing innovative solutions, reducing its carbon footprint, and embracing sustainable practices like reuse and refill, that will inspire consumers, aligning with its long-term commitments to protect the environment.
PepsiCo entered India in 1989 and has grown to become one of the largest food and beverage businesses in India. PepsiCo India’s portfolio includes brands such as Pepsi, Lay’s, Kurkure, Tropicana 100%, Gatorade, and Quaker.
Recently, PepsiCo’s rival Coca-Cola India had launched a new bottle made from 100% rPET. Plastics packaging solutions provider ALPLA, which developed the bottle for Coca-Cola, had also said it is the first time a 100% rPET bottle has been used in India for food or drinks. The bottle was launched for the packaged drinking water brand of Kinley from Coca-Cola India.
The Food Safety Standards Authority of India has approved the use of recycled PET in food packaging, subject to compliance with its guidelines, after a thorough review of food safety.
