Thai Coconut Expands Global Reach with Sidel's Aseptic PET Line
Thai Coconut has significantly expanded its production capabilities by implementing an aseptic polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottling system from Sidel. This strategic move marks a transition from traditional cans and cartons to PET packaging, aiming to boost the company's global export potential.
The newly adopted full aseptic PET line is designed to process both carbonated and still coconut juice products, utilizing Sidel's Aseptic Combi Predis technology. This system integrates preform sterilisation, blow moulding, filling, and capping into a single streamlined process, achieving a production rate of 45,000 bottles per hour.
Montri Banraungsanor, Thai Coconut's chief technical officer, highlighted the decision to partner with Sidel, citing the company's strong reputation and expertise in aseptic solutions. Sidel's packaging team has also crafted a new bottle design to enhance the product's market appeal and shelf visibility.
The Aseptic Combi Predis system employs a dry method for preform decontamination, significantly reducing water and chemical usage while maintaining strict food safety standards. Additionally, the line features Sidel's Evo-ON Performance system, which provides real-time production tracking and allows for immediate line adjustments.
Thai Coconut's versatile setup enables the production of both carbonated soft drinks (CSD) and non-CSD aseptic beverages on the same line. It supports various bottle formats, including 350ml options for both CSD and non-CSD products, using the same filler.
A critical aspect of the project was ensuring compliance with international regulations, particularly those set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The aseptic PET line is FDA-ready, with 90% of its production intended for international markets.
Parkpoom Praprom, Sidel's Southeast Asia Pacific sales director, emphasized the company's commitment to customer performance, noting the new line's 100% efficiency during validation. In April, Sidel further expanded its product line with the introduction of the EvoFILL PET, designed for water and other non-carbonated beverages.
