The morning began with sense of anticipation as we made our way to Tetra Pak, eager to explore the future of packaging. Little did we know that behind the sleek walls of Tetra Pak awaited a world of innovation. Where packaging design aligns with the principles of circular economy and sustainability drives every development.

Guided by Professor Lars Palm, our packaging technology and development class explored Tetra Pak, beginning with an impressive visit to the product room and continuing with insightful lectures from the company’s technologists and packaging specialists. From dairy and plant-based beverages to soups, broths, and even pet food packaging in the product room, we discovered that Tetra Pak’s portfolio spans over 2,500 products, each shaped by a delicate balance of processing, packaging, and equipment innovation.

Afterwards, we were taken to the lecture room, where Tetra’s Pak technology specialist and packaging developers shared deep insights into the company’s three core pillars: processing, packaging, and services. Then explained how Tetra Pak’s designs and innovation align with its mission to deliver the world’s most sustainable food package.
We also learned how the company is replacing aluminium foils with paper-based barriers, introducing attached caps and paper straws, and simplifying packaging structures to make recycling more economically viable. These innovations come with complex challenges, from maintaining food safety and self-life to ensuring mechanical strength and moisture control in laminated paper materials. Yet, the drive for continuous improvement was clear in every discussion.
One of the most interesting parts of the visit was understanding how packaging design affects the entire value chain, from sourcing raw fibres to recycling at end-of-life. We explored their research on fibre recycling methods, studying how different material combinations affect recyclability, drainage, and fibre recovery. This discussion connected directly to our FIPDes focus on Packaging Design and Logistics, highlighting the critical link between innovation, sustainability, and real-world functionality.

To wrap up the visit, the HR team joined us to share valuable insights on career opportunities within Tetra Pak. It was a helpful and inspiring session that showed us how the skills we are learning could fit into real roles in sustainable packaging and development.

The visit reminded us that packaging is not only about protecting food, but also protecting resources, reducing waste, and designing for the planet. As FIPDes student at Lund University, this visit to Tetra Pak left us inspired to imagine the next generation of sustainable food systems, where creativity, science, and responsibility meet.