Clipper Teas, the ethical tea brand owned by Wessanen UK, claims it has developed the world’s first plastic-free, non-GM and unbleached heat-sealed tea bag.

The new tea bags are made from a natural plant-based material: a blend of abaca (a species of banana); plant cellulose fibres; and PLA (a bio-polymer derived from non-GM plant material that helps hold the paper together).

This latest innovation from Clipper is driven by brand owner Wessanen UK’s wider mission to minimise the company’s impact on the environment and the natural world.

Emma Vass, ceo at Wessanen UK, said: “We believe in making ethical and sustainable choices and want to provide the best products for both our consumers and the world we live in. Having worked tirelessly to find a completely natural, non-GM solution, it is fantastic to see the new tea bags now in full production. As a brand, Clipper is all about the joy that comes with each and every cup of tea – and we believe the purest joy comes with a clear conscience.”

Rebecca Vercoe, Clipper Teas brand controller at Wessanen UK, added: “We are incredibly proud to be the first tea brand to introduce a plastic-free tea bag that’s also non-GM and unbleached. Guided by our founding principles of natural, fair and delicious, we have always strived to do the best we can for people and the planet. Now we’ve created and implemented a plastic-free bag, we won’t be going back.”

As part of the roll-out of the new plastic-free bags, retailers will be encouraged to sell through existing Clipper Teas stock. To let consumers know about the changes to Clipper products, an on-pack flash will be introduced on specific lines from January 2019.

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