Milk carton

Milk Carton

A milk carton is a type of packaging made out of paperboard, and sometimes lined with foil or plastic, in which milk and other liquid products are stored. The milk carton is a ubiquitous item in many households around the world, and its design and function have evolved over the years to meet changing consumer needs and environmental concerns.

History

The first milk cartons were introduced in the early 20th century, as an alternative to the glass bottles that were commonly used at the time. The Gable top design, which is still widely used today, was patented in 1915 by John Van Wormer. The Tetra Pak, a type of aseptic packaging for milk and other liquids, was introduced in the 1950s and has since become a global standard.

Design and Function

Milk cartons are typically rectangular or square in shape, and are designed to be easy to pour from and to store in the refrigerator. They are usually sealed with a plastic or foil lid, which can be resealed after use to keep the contents fresh. Some milk cartons also feature a screw-top lid for added convenience.

The design of the milk carton also includes important information for the consumer, such as the brand name, the type of milk, the volume, the expiration date, and nutritional information. Some milk cartons also feature promotional messages or advertisements.

Environmental Impact

Milk cartons are often made from renewable resources, such as paperboard, and are recyclable in many areas. However, the use of plastic and foil in some milk cartons can make them more difficult to recycle. Many companies are working on developing more sustainable packaging options for milk and other liquid products.

See Also

• Packaging and labeling
• Tetra Pak
• Gable top