Heatwaves and the Role of Sustainable Packaging

The intense heatwaves experienced across Europe in recent weeks have once again highlighted the importance of continuing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The scientific community agrees that these events are the result of a combination of natural weather patterns and a progressively warmer climate caused by the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases such as CO₂.

Against this backdrop, an interesting question arises:

Can a simple package help fight climate change?

The answer is simple: not on its own, but it can become part of the solution when millions of packages are designed with a lower carbon footprint.

Beyond Recyclability: The Importance of Carbon Footprint

For many years, sustainable packaging has been associated primarily with recyclability. Today, however, we know that another factor is equally important: the carbon footprint of each product.

A carbon footprint measures the greenhouse gas emissions generated throughout a package’s entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, transportation and recycling. This assessment, known as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), shows that two packages with the same appearance and functionality can have very different climate impacts.

Reducing that footprint means reducing the emissions associated with every unit produced. When we are talking about millions of food packaging products, the cumulative impact becomes highly significant.

Recycled Materials and Eco-Design: The Combination That Makes the Difference

One of the most effective ways to reduce a package’s carbon footprint is by using recycled PET (rPET). In general, producing recycled plastic requires less energy than manufacturing virgin resin, while also supporting the circular economy by giving existing materials a new life.

However, material selection alone is not enough.

True eco-design means developing mono-material products that are easy to recycle, compatible with existing recycling infrastructures and optimised to minimise resource consumption and waste.

The combination of recycled materials and design principles focused on circularity makes it possible to develop sustainable packaging solutions with a lower environmental impact without compromising performance.

QIUB Packaging’s Innovation

At QIUB Packaging, we have been driving this vision of innovation for many years. Since 2020, we have been the first company in the world to develop spice grinders manufactured entirely from PET and rPET.

Our mono-material grinders have been designed to improve recyclability, facilitate the incorporation of recycled material and contribute to a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional solutions, while maintaining the high performance required by the food packaging industry.

For us, innovation is not simply about creating a better product. It is also about helping our customers reduce the environmental impact of their products through future-ready mono-material packaging solutions.

Millions of Small Improvements Create a Big Impact

Can a single package change the climate?

No.

But millions of packages with a lower carbon footprint can help reduce the overall greenhouse gas emissions of the food industry.

This is how sustainability works: through thousands of small improvements repeated millions of times. Every innovation in materials, every improvement in design and every advance in recyclability contributes to reducing the environmental impact of packaging.

Innovating to Build a More Sustainable Future

There is no single solution capable of stopping climate change. Progress will require continued advances in renewable energy, industrial efficiency, sustainable mobility and the circular economy.

Packaging can also be part of that progress.

At QIUB Packaging, we believe that innovation means developing solutions that create value for our customers while contributing to a more sustainable future.

Looking to develop packaging solutions with a lower carbon footprint? Our team can help you design PET and rPET packaging solutions that combine innovation, functionality, recyclability and sustainability to meet today’s market challenges.

 

At QIUB Packaging, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to quality, food safety and continuous improvement. We are proud to announce that, for the sixth consecutive year, we have achieved the highest rating in the BRCGS Packaging Materials certification, one of the most demanding international standards for manufacturers of food packaging.

This year’s achievement is particularly significant, as the audit was carried out unannounced, allowing us to obtain the AA+ rating, the highest distinction awarded by BRCGS.

What does achieving the BRCGS Packaging Materials AA+ certification mean?

The BRCGS Packaging Materials certification confirms that our manufacturing processes and packaging materials meet the highest standards of quality, hygiene, food safety and traceability.

In the case of unannounced audits, the assessment is conducted without prior notice, ensuring that quality management systems consistently operate at the highest level throughout the year. Achieving the AA+ rating demonstrates the robustness of our processes and our ongoing commitment to excellence.

A commitment to quality and innovation

This achievement reflects the daily dedication of the entire QIUB Packaging team and our commitment to providing packaging solutions that meet the evolving needs of the food industry.

We develop plastic food packaging solutions that combine innovation, quality and sustainability, with particular expertise in the manufacture of sustainable PET and rPET spice grinders, as well as grinders with ceramic mechanisms, recyclable packaging and solutions incorporating recycled materials.

Our goal is to support food brands with packaging solutions that ensure product safety while helping to reduce environmental impact without compromising functionality or quality.

A recognition shared by the entire team

Achieving the BRCGS Packaging Materials AA+ certification for the sixth consecutive year is the result of the commitment, professionalism and dedication of everyone at QIUB Packaging.

We would like to thank our customers for the trust they place in us and recognise the efforts of our entire team, whose daily work makes it possible to maintain the highest quality standards.

We will continue to develop increasingly innovative and sustainable plastic food packaging solutions, creating added value for our customers and strengthening QIUB Packaging’s position as a trusted manufacturer in the packaging industry.

At QIUB Packaging, we believe that successful packaging starts long before production. It begins with an idea and evolves through design, mold development and industrial implementation.

As part of our commitment to innovation, we have integrated a new in-house mold manufacturing workshop within our facilities. This strategic step reinforces our position as a 360º packaging partner, supporting our clients from concept to implementation on their packaging lines.

In-house mold manufacturing for faster packaging development

Bringing mold manufacturing in-house allows us to gain full control over a key stage of the development process.

For our clients, this means:

• Faster packaging development cycles
• Greater agility in design iterations
• Reduced time-to-market

By managing the entire process internally, we can accelerate validation phases and respond more efficiently to project requirements.

Expertise in grinder molds and other packaging and PET/rPET injection parts

Over the years, QIUB Packaging has developed strong expertise in the design and production of:

• Grinder molds
• Other packaging solutions and PET and rPET injection components

With our new in-house mold workshop, we strengthen our ability to develop high-precision solutions while ensuring consistency and performance in industrial environments.

This is especially relevant in sectors where packaging functionality and reliability are critical.

More flexibility and cost-efficient mold development

Internalizing mold manufacturing not only improves speed, but also increases flexibility.

We can adapt designs more easily, optimize technical solutions and offer more efficient development processes.

Key benefits include:

• Greater flexibility in custom packaging projects
• Optimization of mold development costs
• Improved control over quality and timelines

This allows us to deliver tailored solutions while maintaining high technical standards.

From packaging design to industrial implementation

At QIUB Packaging, we go beyond component supply. We support our clients throughout the entire packaging development process:

• From initial concept and packaging design
• To mold development and prototyping
• To implementation on packaging lines

Our goal is to ensure that every solution is not only well designed, but also fully optimized for real production conditions.

A stronger 360º packaging partner

With the integration of our in-house mold manufacturing capabilities, we continue to enhance our value proposition as a trusted partner in packaging innovation.

More control. More speed. More flexibility.

A smarter way to develop industrial packaging solutions.

Contact us and we will develop your project.

At QIUB Packaging we confirm our participation in INTERPACK 2026 to present our latest innovations in sustainable packaging.

We continue to move forward with a clear vision at QIUB: to develop innovative, functional and sustainable packaging solutions, anticipating market needs and evolving regulatory requirements.

Our strategy is built on process optimisation, the use of recycled and recyclable materials, and the continuous measurement and reduction of our environmental footprint. This approach has allowed us to strengthen our position as a reference in sustainable packaging development, closely aligned with the principles of the circular economy.

QIUB at INTERPACK 2026

With this vision in mind, we are pleased to announce that QIUB Packaging will take part in INTERPACK 2026, one of the world’s leading trade fairs for the packaging industry.

📍 Stand no. 9H19

INTERPACK will be a key opportunity to share our vision, connect with industry professionals and present our latest innovations in sustainable packaging.

New developments in sustainable grinders and beyond

At the fair, we will unveil new sustainable spice grinder solutions, featuring:

• ✨ New designs, focused on functionality and user experience
• ⚙️ New functionalities, enhancing performance and ease of use
• 📦 New formats, adapted to different market needs

In addition, we will present new packaging solutions for other sectors, including food and cosmetics, responding to the growing demand for responsible, efficient and future-ready packaging.

Designed to meet PPWR requirements

All these developments are conceived to support compliance with the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), offering solutions that incorporate recycled materials, are recyclable, and contribute to a more circular and sustainable packaging model.

We will be sharing more details about these innovations in upcoming publications.

INTERPACK 2026 will mark an important milestone in QIUB Packaging’s journey towards a more sustainable and innovative future.

 

Sustainable growth in 2024

At QIUB Packaging, we continue to prove that growth and sustainability can go hand in hand. In 2024, we have once again achieved certification for the reduction of our carbon footprint — showing our commitment to the environment and responsible innovation.

This milestone is even more significant considering that QIUB grew by 15% during this same period. A challenge we have met thanks to a solid strategy based on resource optimization, continuous process improvement and, above all, the selection of materials that are more environmentally friendly.

The key: QIUB is committed to sustainable materials.

In this regard, we firmly choose materials such as PET and rPET, instead of other materials with a higher emission factor like POM, PC or PMMA, which are also difficult to recycle economically according to the requirements set out in the PPWR (the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation from the European Union). This transition not only reduces our environmental footprint but also allows us to anticipate an increasingly demanding regulatory framework that aligns with the circular economy.

Since 2020, QIUB has been a pioneer in producing grinders made with recycled rPET. This commitment strengthens our circular model and responds to the growing demand for more sustainable packaging solutions. Today more than ever, the industry demands packaging that not only serves its function but also actively contributes to waste and emissions reduction.

We certify and reduce our carbon footprint.

Additionally, this certification has been verified in accordance with the UNE-EN ISO 14064-3:2019 Standard and fully complies with all GHG Protocol criteria. This ensures that our emissions inventory has been prepared following the highest international standards of transparency, consistency and accuracy.

We will continue working every day to innovate with recyclable, recycled and reusable solutions, staying true to the 4R’s that guide our philosophy: recyclable, recycled, reusable and renewable.

From QIUB we want to thank our entire team and our customers, who trust our products to deliver quality, efficient packaging that respects the planet.

We remain committed to building a more sustainable future!

At QIUB Packaging, we are excited to introduce our latest innovation: the REGRINDER, the spice grinder designed to take your salts and spices to the next level.

Elegance and functionality

The REGRINDER stands out for its elegant aesthetics and Premium finish. In addition, it also includes an innovative adjustable ceramic grinding mechanism, which allows the consumer to choose the grind size of their salts and spices. Whether fine or coarse, the REGRINDER guarantees perfect milling experience every time, making it the ideal grinder for seasoning any dish.

On the other hand, the 180ml glass jar of this new format has an elegant design that is not only easy to label on the production line but also easy to handle for the consumer.

Retail and Horeca

This format is ideal for both retail sector products and those aimed at the Horeca sector. It perfectly adapts to the needs of both markets while featuring an attractive design. Additionally, this is the perfect  packaging solution for launching special promotions of spices and salts during key seasons, such as Christmas and other holidays.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a functional, attractive, and high-quality packaging solution for your gourmet spices or salts, the REGRINDER from QIUB Packaging is the perfect choice. Don’t miss the opportunity to include this innovative grinder in your products range!

I want to know more!

At QIUB Packaging, we are pleased to confirm our participation in the prestigious PLMA Trade Show, which will be held in Chicago on November 18 and 19. This world-renowned event brings together key players in the private label and distribution sectors. It is considered the ideal meeting point for exploring new business opportunities and establishing strategic partnerships in the U.S., where QIUB is making steady progress to expand its presence.

What can you find at our booth?

At QIUB Packaging, we develop sustainable grinders with innovative functionalities and attractive designs for spice and salt packaging. We manufacture grinders that not only enhance consumer experience but also reduce environmental impact.

During the trade show, we will showcase our latest range of spice grinders and caps, designed to meet the customization needs of private label brands. Our products offer both practical and aesthetically appealing solutions at competitive prices.

Visit us!

If you are looking for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions for your spices and salts, be sure to visit us at the PLMA Chicago. It will be a great opportunity to meet us, exchange ideas, and discover how our grinders and packaging solutions can add value to your brand.

We would be delighted to welcome you at booth F2846, where our experts will be available to provide you with all the information you need and give you a closer look at the advantages of our packaging solutions.

See you at PLMA Chicago!

Mark your calendar for November 18 and 19. We look forward to seeing you in Chicago, at a trade show that promises to be the epicenter of innovation in the private label sector.

We are thrilled to share with our clients that QIUB has once again received the prestigious AA rating in the BRC Packaging audit for the third consecutive year, at our production facilities located in Onil, Spain.

This rating represents the highest level of compliance with the stringent safety, quality, and legality standards in packaging production. Of course, such achievement undoubtedly provides reassurance to food industry who have trusted QIUB for many years.

This esteemed recognition confirms that not only do we meet, but we significantly exceed the strict requirements set by the global packaging safety standard.

Holding this rating helps us gain customer trust, access new global markets, and attract clients who demand high quality standards. Furthermore, being repeatedly recognised with the highest rating underscores the quality of our products made in Spain. These products are manufactured under rigorous internal controls and with the unwavering continuous commitment of our, comprised of qualified and motivated personnel.

In short, at QIUB, we are proud to have renewed this prestigious certification!

QIUB’s team is thrilled to announce our first participation at the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) Exhibition in Amsterdam, scheduled for the 28th and 29th of May at the RAI Exhibition Center. A great opportunity to present our range of sustainable grinders to the main packers and retailers in Europe.

At QIUB Packaging, we are committed to innovation and sustainability, and we are happy to showcase our latest developments at the PLMA Trade Show. In fact, as a world premiere, we will be unveiling our REGRINDER: the world’s first grinder with a ceramic mechanism that is not only reusable but also recyclable and adjustable, thanks to an innovative system developed and patented by QIUB.

Furthermore, we will take this opportunity to present our full range of sustainable grinders, manufactured using recyclable or even recycled materials. This comprehensive range allows us to meet the demands for customization, differentiation, price, and sustainability from Europe’s leading retailers.

Don’t miss the chance to be among the first to discover our sustainable grinders at the PLMA Trade Show in Amsterdam. Visit us at Stand C10 in Hall 4, and let us share everything we can offer to your brand or your clients’ brands!

We look forward to seeing you in Amsterdam!

 

QIUB is excited to announce our expansion into new markets through strategic partnerships. We partnered up long-term in North America with 1-Pack US, an innovative packaging company that has been delivering packaging solutions in America since 2017 and Europe since 1876.

1-Pack, a family-owned business with over 80 years of combined management experience in packaging design, development, manufacturing, and trading, has a strong expertise in creating monomaterial solutions for the industry. Their large network of customers in the US market makes them an ideal partner for QIUB.

Together, QIUB and 1-Pack are collaborating to address sustainability changes through innovation. By combining our strengths in technology, research, and market understanding, we are developing eco-friendly products and streamlining operations. This partnership represents a milestone for our valued customers in the US market, who will now have the opportunity to be directly served from 1-Pack’s warehouse in Pennsylvania.

Our shared commitment to driving positive change and pioneering sustainable solutions in the packaging industry is reflected in this partnership. US customers can now easily find our grinders made from PET, r-PET, and BIO PET. We look forward to continuing our work with 1-Pack to bring innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to the market.

Additionally, as a reminder, QIUB will be participating in next week’s ASTA convention in Tucson (Arizona) from April 16th to 18th. We look forward to showcasing our latest offerings and engaging with industry professionals.