A Sweeter Summer with Compostable Ice Cream Packaging

Compostable packaging designed for frozen products

Ice cream packaging operates in a particularly demanding environment. It must withstand low temperatures, moisture, handling during transportation and storage, while also sealing correctly during the packing process.

This means that replacing a conventional plastic structure is not simply a matter of changing one material for another. The entire packaging solution must be selected and tested with the product, machinery and distribution conditions in mind.

For the PALÊTAS project, we used a cellulose-based compostable material that supports both packaging functionality and the brand’s environmental direction.

Packaging that reflects the energy of the brand

PALÊTAS products are colourful, refreshing and full of character. The packaging needed to communicate this energy immediately.

High-quality printing allowed us to reproduce vivid colours, clear product information and distinctive illustrations while maintaining the natural benefits of a cellulose-based structure.

The finished packaging:

• protects the product during storage and distribution,
• supports attractive and consistent brand communication,
• performs in low-temperature conditions,
• provides an alternative to traditional fossil-based plastic laminates,
• can be adapted to different flavours and product variants.

Why cellulose-based packaging?

Cellulose is produced from renewable plant-based resources. When it is combined with appropriately selected compostable layers, inks and adhesives, it can be used to create flexible packaging structures suitable for a wide range of products.

For brands, compostable packaging can become part of a broader strategy focused on reducing dependence on conventional plastics and developing solutions that better reflect the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers.

However, packaging sustainability should always be considered together with its primary function: protecting the product. A solution must provide the necessary sealing properties, barrier performance and mechanical strength throughout the entire supply chain.

One concept, multiple product versions

Ice cream brands frequently offer several flavours, seasonal collections or limited-edition products. This creates a need for packaging that can be efficiently adapted to different graphic versions.

At SILBO, our printing capabilities make it possible to produce multiple designs, test new concepts and develop shorter production runs. This gives brands greater flexibility when launching:

• new flavours,
• seasonal collections,
• limited editions,
• promotional campaigns,
• market tests,
• packaging redesigns.

With digital printing, production can begin from as little as one reel, depending on the packaging specifications. This allows brands to verify the appearance and performance of a new solution before committing to a large-scale order.

Packaging developed around the product

There is no universal material structure suitable for every frozen product. The final packaging must be selected according to several factors, including:

• the product’s composition,
• required barrier properties,
• storage temperature,
• expected shelf life,
• packaging format,
• sealing parameters,
• packing machine configuration,
• distribution conditions.

That is why we approach every project individually. Before full production, the selected material can be printed and tested on the customer’s packaging line. This helps confirm its machinability, sealing performance and compatibility with the product.

Better packaging begins with collaboration

The PALÊTAS project shows that compostable packaging can be functional, colourful and aligned with a strong consumer brand.

The best results are achieved when packaging development begins early and brings together the brand owner, packaging producer, machine supplier and technical teams. This collaborative approach makes it possible to select a solution that meets both environmental ambitions and real production requirements.

Are you developing packaging for ice cream, frozen snacks or another temperature-sensitive product?

Let’s talk about the material, format and printing technology that will work best for your application.