In a decisive push toward sustainability ITC Ltd has expanded its eco-friendly packaging portfolio by 2.4 times between FY22 and FY25, positioning itself at the forefront of the industry shift away from single-use plastics.
Speaking to ET Digital, B. Sumant, Executive Director of ITC Ltd, shared that the company paperboards and specialty papers division has ramped up innovation to develop alternatives like recyclable and compostable paperboard products for the food and FMCG sectors.
One of ITC most notable developments is the Filo Series a range of barrier-coated, biodegradable, and PFAS-free paperboards designed for packaging hot beverages, meals, and delivery items. The company has also launched WrapWell, a recyclable alternative to aluminium foil, and BioSeal, a compostable coating that resists oil and grease. Another highlight is the Germ-free coating, aimed at enhancing hygiene in packaging.
To ensure performance across diverse markets such as e-commerce, quick commerce, and food services, ITC has adopted a design-led approach that combines scientific rigor with channel-specific customization. Sumant said this enables ITC to meet both aesthetic and functional packaging demands while maintaining environmental responsibility.
ITC’s broader plastic reduction strategy dubbed ‘No Plastic, Better Plastic, Less Plastic’ is reflected in several product lines. Aashirvaad Khapli Atta now comes in a dual-layer eco bag, while Sunfeast Farmlite Digestive packs are made from 100% paper. The Engage deodorant spray has also seen a 31% reduction in plastic use due to design optimizations.
Currently, ITC total paperboards and specialty papers capacity stands at over 9.8 lakh metric tonnes per year, with 6.6 lakh metric tonnes dedicated to value-added products. Backed by R&D from its Life Sciences and Technology Centre, ITC is also integrating Industry 4.0 technologies to keep production cost-effective and scalable.
Sumant emphasized that future investments will focus on expanding ITC manufacturing footprint and strengthening the domestic fibre supply chain to meet the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
As Indian consumers and businesses become increasingly eco-conscious, ITC innovations may well define the new normal for packaging across industries.