How did the partnership with Mars initially come about, and what shared goals or visions led both companies to collaborate on this project?
This partnership took root from a mutual vision between Easysnap Technology and Mars to transform packaging into something both practical and environmentally responsible. Mars, through MasterFoods, was seeking a way to make single-serve packaging more sustainable, and our Papersnap® solution aligned perfectly with their goals. Both companies share a vision where convenience doesn’t compromise the planet. We wanted to prove that sustainability could fit seamlessly into people’s lives, even in something as everyday as a ketchup packet. Mars was ready to take that bold step forward, and we were excited to bring our innovative technology to the table.
Could you tell us more about the history and origin of this project? How did the idea for a paper-based squeeze-on pack come about, and what were some of the initial goals?
The concept for a paper-based, recyclable squeeze-on pack started as a challenge we set for ourselves at Easysnap Technology. We wanted to offer a single-serve solution that wouldn’t end up in the trash after just one use. MasterFoods was a natural fit for this, as they too were looking for new ways to address plastic waste. The idea was simple: maintain the convenience of the single-serve packet but cut the environmental footprint. Early goals focused on balancing functionality with sustainability, ensuring that people could still enjoy the product with the same ease, but with far less plastic. This shared goal laid the foundation for a lasting partnership.
What inspired Easysnap Technology to develop a paper-based, recyclable single-serve pack for products like tomato sauce, and how does this align with your sustainability goals?
At Easysnap, we believe every packet counts. We set out to create a single-serve packaging option that would work with, not against, the environment. Single-serve packs like ketchup sachets are often seen as convenient yet wasteful—so we reimagined them with Papersnap®. This aligns with our mission to innovate responsibly, giving brands the tools they need to reduce plastic and offer consumers something that’s easy to use and easy to recycle. With Papersnap, we’re taking a small but meaningful step toward cutting down the waste consumers generate daily.
Could you walk us through the research and development process for this new packaging? What were some of the major challenges Easysnap faced in creating this innovative, paper-based format?
The R&D process for Papersnap was intensive, to say the least. Creating a pack that’s mostly paper, but still strong and flexible enough for a squeeze-on function, was a journey. Our engineers faced challenges in ensuring the pack would hold up, not leak, and still deliver the sauce in a consistent way. Another challenge was balancing durability with recyclability. The pack had to withstand handling but also be easy to recycle at the end. Each detail—the materials, the coating, the adhesives—required fine-tuning to meet these high standards, and we’re proud of the final product.
Why was Australia chosen as the first market for this paper-based packaging trial, and how significant is this region for Easysnap Technology's goals?
Australia is an ideal testing ground for Papersnap because of its strong push toward sustainability. With Mars Australia’s insights, we’re introducing a product that speaks directly to environmentally conscious consumers who are ready for a change. For Easysnap, Australia represents a market that not only values innovation but also holds companies accountable for sustainable practices. This trial will give us valuable feedback from consumers who expect greener solutions, and success here could pave the way for global expansion.
What role did your collaboration with Mars Australia play in the development of the recyclable Squeeze-On packs, and how did their insights shape the final design?
Mars Australia’s role was instrumental—they provided insight into what their customers value most: simplicity, reliability, and a clear environmental benefit. They emphasized the need for a design that would stay true to the brand’s commitment to quality and ease of use. With their guidance, we ensured that Papersnap would not only be recyclable but also user-friendly, even for someone on the go. Mars Australia’s focus on real consumer needs helped us develop a pack that balances functionality with sustainability in a way we couldn’t have achieved alone.
From a technical standpoint, what makes this new packaging unique in terms of its recyclability and reduced plastic content? Could you explain the materials and design choices that allow for kerbside recycling?
The Papersnap design is unique because it’s mostly paper, with only minimal components to ensure the pack stays sealed and hygienic. The paper-based materials are reinforced enough to hold liquid, but flexible enough to allow a one-handed squeeze. The pack is designed to be easily recyclable with other paper products, allowing it to go straight into the kerbside recycling bin after use. By combining these materials, we’ve created a pack that achieves the function of traditional single-serve sachets with a much smaller environmental footprint.
With over a million units set for testing, what consumer feedback are you most interested in during this trial period, and how will that feedback influence potential changes before a wider rollout?
We’re listening closely to consumers on several fronts: how easy it is to use, the recyclability, and their overall impression of the eco-friendly pack. We want to know if it feels as intuitive and sturdy as they’d expect. If consumers find it difficult to squeeze or recycle, we’ll refine the design. Their feedback will be crucial in adapting the pack for broader use. This is a learning process, and every piece of feedback brings us closer to the ideal single-serve solution.
How do you envision this partnership with Mars Australia influencing other industry players? Do you anticipate more brands adopting paper-based solutions similar to this one?
This partnership sets a powerful example in the packaging world. When a major player like Mars commits to sustainable innovation, it sends a message across the industry. We believe this collaboration will inspire others to consider paper-based alternatives seriously. Many brands are watching this trial closely, and we’re hopeful that it will spark interest and action toward similar solutions. A single sustainable pack is a small step, but in the right hands, it could drive a significant shift in how the industry views disposable packaging.
If this trial succeeds, what are the next steps for Easysnap? Are there plans to expand this paper-based packaging technology to other markets or product categories globally?
If this trial goes well, the possibilities are vast. Our first priority would be to expand this technology to other regions where Mars operates, and potentially beyond. Each market has unique needs, so adapting Papersnap for different consumers would be our next challenge. We’re also looking at other product categories that could benefit from a recyclable, paper-based single-serve pack. The ultimate goal is to make Papersnap a go-to choice for brands worldwide that want to balance convenience with a responsible footprint.
In addition to tomato sauce, what other product categories do you envision Papersnap technology being used for, and how could it benefit those products?
Papersnap has the potential to transform packaging in several categories—think condiments, cosmetics, and even certain healthcare products. Anywhere single-use, liquid packaging is in demand, Papersnap can bring both ease and sustainability. For cosmetics, for instance, it offers a hygienic, precise dose without waste. For healthcare, it could mean safe, single-use packs for creams or lotions. Papersnap brings a versatile option to the table, and we’re excited to see how it could elevate the experience for different products.
For more information, please visit www.easysnap.com