The paper-based and corrugated packaging manufacturer has been awarded the certification in recent weeks from the Vegan Society, which has been helping individuals identify plant-based products since 1990.
“No other packaging companies are registered with the Vegan Trademark and it has been made possible for Smurfit Kappa thanks to the Markham Vale site in the United Kingdom. Our vegan certified packaging products are produced using corrugated solutions, which are both vegan and environmentally friendly,” the company stated.
All products with the Vegan Trademark are produced using paper, glue, starch, and inks which are all sourced from eco-conscious suppliers and free from animal products. Smurfit Kappa’s range of vegan-approved packaging options are suitable for products including fashion, cosmetics, food, drinks, and more.
Smurfit Kappa has also announced an ongoing partnership with The Vegan Society, which will see it help other trademark holders produce vegan certified packaging for their plant-based product ranges.
The Vegan Society recently conducted research revealing that 97% of vegans and vegetarians will look for vegan verification on food and drink products before making a purchase.
Senior business development manager at Smurfit Kappa Markham Vale, Mark Robinson, said: “At Smurfit Kappa, we pride ourselves on providing innovative and sustainable packaging. We are thrilled to be the first packaging company to be recognised as Vegan Society Certified.
“This accreditation will give reassurances to customers with a preference for vegan products that all components of our finished products are cruelty-free and not from animal origin.”
Vegan Society business development marketing manager Ericka Durgahee added: “Announcing our partnership with Smurfit Kappa couldn’t have come at a better time. Not only are they the first packaging company to register products with us, but they are also the 60,000th product to hold the Vegan Trademark. We’ve come a long way since we registered our first product in 1990.”
Earlier this month, Smurfit Kappa UK (SKUK) acquired corrugated packaging provider Atlas Packaging.
Meanwhile, last month Smurfit Kappa Group said it had decided to exit the Russian market. It had already suspended support for its Russian operations including any imports and exports and any short or long-term funding.
