It was 27 years ago when Sokpol began producing beverages in cardboard, and subsequently glass packaging. Back then, they were the most commonly used materials in Poland. However, developments in the beverage industry along with the growing demands of customers have resulted in the need to adapt production to changing realities and new technologies.
Due to the increase in the share of PET type packaging in the segment of juices, nectars and fruit drinks, Sokpol was one of the first companies to invest in aseptic filling into PET bottles. In 2008, we purchased an aseptic packaging line for PET bottles from Sidel. It was the first packaging line with the ability to perform dry decontamination of PET preforms implemented in Europe and only the second one in the world.
How does the technology of aseptic filling work?
This technology involves dry sterilization of preforms using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). As a part of the process of blowing the bottles, the preforms are heated to high temperatures which allow to plasticize the PET material, and in turn activate hydrogen peroxide which acts as a disinfectant. Consequently the bottle is blown, and given the shape of a dedicated form.
The advantages of innovative methods
How does the modern aseptic filling line look with previously used methods? There are several differences:
• Traditional bottle decontamination uses enormous amounts of water, while the dry sterilization system does not need it at all.
• The small amount of chemicals required for this process makes for a better option in view of reduced environmental impact and cost-effectiveness.
• The use of this technology allows you to safely manufacture products with a long shelf life without the need for preservatives.
• The PET bottle provides design freedom, enabling the creation of a virtually unlimited number of shapes, which results in excellent opportunities to differentiate the product and increase its attractiveness on the market.
Aseptic PET containers in contrast to glass bottles
The PET container has many advantages over a traditional glass bottle. It's an unbreakable, lightweight packaging that can be produced in many shapes. This allows for a plethora of products to be particularly tailored to market expectations. Thanks to the aseptic production of PET bottles, we can handle all types of drinks and bottle sizes, thus guaranteeing production flexibility, and ultimately safe products of the highest quality.
The development of Sokpol
Over the last several years we have expanded our portfolio with new formats of PET bottles in various capacities, as well as increased the possibilities of aseptic filling of new product categories: with seeds, freshly squeezed without concentrate or smoothie beverages. Currently, in PET aseptic packaging, we have a wide range of products sold both under our brands and those of our clients. We produce NFC juices, 100% juices, smoothies, nectars and drinks. This allows us to adapt to changing market trends and consumer expectations.
