Vital Proteins Debuts Paper-Based Canister for Collagen Peptides

Vital Proteins is transitioning its collagen peptides from plastic packaging to an 80% paperboard canister, marking the first significant packaging change in its 10-plus year history, and a category-first packaging design.

The swap comes as consumer interest in sustainable packaging continues to rise. In fact, nearly 80% of North American shoppers have expressed a desire to purchase a product based on its sustainability claims, according to the brand.

Made from fibers that come from responsibly managed Forest Stewardship Council-certified forests, the state-of-the-art paper-based tub will reduce more than 90% of plastic use across all Vital Proteins canister offerings, or roughly 1,800 metric tons (which is nearly four million pounds), according to the brand.

Curbside Recyclable and Plastic Scoop Free

To help reduce waste, Vital Proteins has designed the new canister to be curbside recyclable. Consumers are encouraged to check with their local municipality to ensure they can recycle paper-based canisters and can find How2Recycle instructions on the new packaging.

In 2022, Vital Proteins began removing the plastic scoops from its canisters. It and aims to be 100% free of these scoops across its entire portfolio by the end of 2025. And, since its inception, the brand says it’s dedicated to responsibly sourcing its collagen peptides, and holds its suppliers to the same high standards to improve sustainability practices across its supply chain.

“As pioneers in the collagen category, we feel a responsibility to lead when it comes to investing in sustainability initiatives, which includes innovating our packaging and reducing our plastic footprint,” said Jill Abbott, general manager at Vital Proteins. “With wellness at the core of our brand, we care about making a positive impact on both our consumers and the planet through all that we do. The road to get here wasn’t always easy, but we’re incredibly proud to take this meaningful next step in our journey toward a more responsible future as we introduce our new paper-based canister – and to be the first collagen brand to do it.”

US Plastics Pact Donation

In celebration of this milestone, Vital Proteins is donating to the US Plastics Pact, which is dedicated to eliminating problematic plastics and identifying opportunities to make plastic packaging 100% reusable, recyclable or compostable. This contribution will support the organization’s main target areas around plastic waste.

All Vital Proteins collagen peptides products are targeted to transition from plastic to paper-based canisters by 2026. Vital Proteins Unflavored Collagen Peptides is the first product variety to roll out in the new paper-based packaging and is now available in a 24-ounce size canister in club stores for $36.99.

Beginning in September 2024, a 20-ounce paper-based canister of Vital Proteins Unflavored Collagen Peptides will be available for $47 at national retailers where the product is currently sold.