Companies constantly innovate with technology and redesign their packaging to get better performance, improve marketability and enhance sustainability. Here’s a look at three new or redesigned packaging solutions on Packaging Dive’s radar.

Four-flap format flip

In conjunction with introducing a smaller size of its McFlurry soft serve dessert next week, McDonald’s is switching up the packaging format for the frozen treat. The products will be served in four-flap cups and the prior cup design with plastic lids will be phased out.

The company says this move will improve sustainability and aligns with its goal to source all consumer-facing packaging from “renewable, recycled or certified materials” by the end of next year. “Packaging updates like this matter,” Michael Gonda, senior vice president and chief impact officer for North America, said in a news release.

The four-flap cups previously rolled out in select international markets, such as Canada and Indonesia. While the mini McFlurry will become available on Sept. 10, McDonald’s did not confirm by publication time on what timeline it would phase out the plastic lids; it also did not name the supplier or specify cup and barrier materials.

Staying put

Beverage brand Capri Sun found itself embroiled in a fan controversy over the last week, following posts on social media accounts for Snackolator, which tracks updates in the snack space, reporting that Capri Sun plans to introduce single-serve bottles. After backlash from countless social media users waxing nostalgic for the iconic beverage pouches, Capri Sun itself took to social media to assuage concerns. 

“Don’t believe everything you read on the internet - we’d never disrespect the pouch and they’re here to stay!” the company posted on its Instagram account on Aug. 30.

Snackolator stated on Aug. 28 that Capri Sun would unveil the bottles at the National Association of Convenience Stores trade show in October and they’d be in stores soon.

After the flood of negative reactions on social media, Snackolator returned to Instagram a couple days later with an update clarifying that the bottles will co-exist with the pouches: “For those who have been hearing (incorrect) reports, the pouches are not going anywhere! This is *in addition* to give adults (and probably teens) an option who might want some Capri Sun without walking around with a pouch!” It said the bottles will be used for three flavors to start.

Capri Sun confirmed to Today that the single-serve bottles are coming to stores, but not until next year. Earlier this year, The Kraft Heinz Co. announced that some of its Capri Sun beverages would become available in 96-ounce bottles that would be sold at club stores.

Parting with plastic pods

New England Coffee Co. switched up the materials for its coffee pods, and the new items are certified by BPI as commercially compostable, the company said in a news release. PurPod developed the single-serve option that uses a mesh filter for the base; it’s made with plant-based materials instead of the plastic used in the previous version, a spokesperson said via email.

The lid is a biobased cellulose film made with “sustainably-managed pulp” and commercially compostable materials, according to the spokesperson. And the brown ring is made with materials including upcycled chaff, or coffee bean skins. The company also says the new format ensures a fresher coffee flavor and richer aroma.

New England Coffee has already replaced its previous pods with the new ones for purchase online and in-person at grocers and retailers.