Valio and Huhtamaki increase cooperation

FINLAND – Finnish dairy Valio said this week that it has tightened its co-operation with consumer packaging specialist Huhtamaki.

The two companies have signed a letter of intent that gives Huhtamaki a priority position whenever Valio requires a new packaging solution. Valio has been using paperboard and packaging from Huhtamaki’s plant in Hameenlinna, Finland, for nearly 30 years for its yogurt, fat, spread and ice cream products.

“Packaging plays an increasingly central role in the quality and marketing of branded food products,” said Valio domestic sales and marketing vice president Pentii Paloranta. “We see many opportunities to develop better packaging together with Huhtamaki, thus offering added value for customers.” Huhtamaki has recently established a technology and development centre for rigid paperboard and plastic packaging. One of its key areas is multi-layer barrier materials, which enhance the freshness and shelf-life of food products.

Also this week, Valio has launched its lactose-free milk available in Sweden. The product, which has already proved a success in Finland, is an important product for the Swedish market as 5% of the Swedish population suffer from lactose intolerance.

Valio claims that its lactose-free milk tastes the same as fresh milk but can only be labeled as a milk drink because is contains no lactose.