Sofia Martinez
Plastic seals on ice cream tubs are used to assure customers that their product has not been tampered with. However, some companies are removing these plastic seals to reduce waste and increase sustainability. Ben & Jerry's, for example, has been working to reduce the petroleum-based plastic in its packaging and is testing the complete removal of the plastic wrap from around the outside of its cardboard lids. In 2025, Wells Enterprises recalled nearly 18,000 containers of Blue Bunny and Halo Top ice cream due to potential plastic contamination, which could have been prevented with a plastic seal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ice cream brand | Ben & Jerry's |
| Plastic seal type | Tamper band/tape |
| Plastic seal location | Around the lid |
| Plastic seal purpose | To protect the ice cream from tampering |
| Alternative seals | Paper/cardboard tab, paper seal |
| Plastic reduction efforts | Use of plant-based polyethylene, removal of plastic wrap/tamper tape |
| Quality assurance measures | Laboratory analyses, operator controls, metal detector checks |
| Consumer concerns | Product safety, potential tampering during distribution |
| Recalls due to plastic contamination | Wells Enterprises (Blue Bunny and Halo Top brands) |
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What You'll Learn
Ben & Jerry's removed plastic seals
Ben & Jerry's has been working for years to reduce the petroleum-based plastic in its packaging to make its containers more recyclable. The company has now removed the plastic wrap or tamper tape from around the outside of its cardboard lids. By removing the sealing tape, the company can save 96 tons of plastic per year.
The removal of the plastic seal has raised concerns among customers about potential tampering with the product after it leaves the factory. In response to these concerns, Ben & Jerry's has implemented various laboratory analyses and operator controls to ensure the safety and integrity of its products. All products made in the factory undergo rigorous testing and must pass all checks, including a metal detector scan, before being released to the public.
While some customers have expressed understanding and appreciation for the company's efforts to become more environmentally friendly, others have suggested alternative sealing methods, such as using a paper or cardboard tab as a seal, to reassure customers that the product has not been tampered with.
Ben & Jerry's has also made its European cardboard ice cream tubs more sustainable by using a one-sided coating of plant-based polyethylene, further reducing plastic use and shifting sources away from petroleum. This change has made their pints more widely recyclable in Europe.
The company's commitment to reducing plastic waste and increasing recyclability aligns with its values and concerns for the environment, social justice, and climate change.
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Quality control and customer concerns
Ben & Jerry's, for example, has been working to reduce the use of petroleum-based plastic in its packaging. In 2020, the company transitioned to using a one-sided coating of plant-based polyethylene for its European cardboard ice cream tubs, making them more sustainable and widely recyclable. As part of this initiative, they also tested the removal of the plastic wrap or tamper tape from around the cardboard lids. While this change aimed to save 96 tons of plastic annually, it sparked discussions about quality control and customer assurance.
Customers have expressed concerns about the absence of a plastic seal, worrying about potential tampering during the distribution chain. Suggestions for alternative sealing methods, such as using a paper or cardboard tab, have been proposed to reassure customers and maintain product integrity. Ben & Jerry's responded to these concerns by highlighting their confidence in their quality service and acknowledging the importance of addressing these issues.
To address quality control and customer concerns, comprehensive measures are implemented in the manufacturing process. All products undergo rigorous laboratory analyses and operator controls to ensure their safety. Additionally, finished goods must pass various checks, including metal detection, before being released to the market. These protocols are designed to prevent contamination and assure customers of the product's integrity.
While companies strive to balance sustainability initiatives and customer confidence, it is essential to maintain open communication and transparency. By actively engaging with customer feedback and implementing effective quality control measures, ice cream manufacturers can continuously improve their processes and maintain the trust of their consumers.
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Plastic contamination in Blue Bunny and Halo Top ice cream
Plastic contamination is a serious issue that has affected several ice cream brands, including Blue Bunny and Halo Top. Wells Enterprises, the company that produces these popular ice cream brands, has recently recalled thousands of containers of ice cream due to potential plastic contamination. The recall affected 22 different flavors of ice cream and frozen yogurt, distributed across the United States in 3-gallon tubs.
The presence of plastic in food products, especially those meant for consumption, is a significant concern. Plastic contamination can occur during the manufacturing or packaging process, where small pieces of plastic may inadvertently find their way into the product. In the case of Blue Bunny and Halo Top ice cream, it is believed that plastic may have been introduced during the preparation of the ice cream. This contamination can pose health risks to consumers, ranging from minor to severe, depending on the type and size of the plastic material ingested.
The recall by Wells Enterprises was initiated voluntarily, demonstrating the company's commitment to ensuring consumer safety. The affected products had "use by" dates ranging from March 2026 to October 2026, and they were distributed to over 100 centers across the United States, including states like Iowa, Michigan, Illinois, and Texas. This recall highlights the importance of quality control and consumer awareness in the food industry. It is crucial for consumers to check the "Best If Used By" dates and product codes to ensure they do not consume potentially contaminated products.
Plastic contamination in food products can have several adverse effects on both human health and the environment. When ingested, small pieces of plastic can cause choking hazards and may even lead to internal injuries. Additionally, certain types of plastics can release toxic chemicals when consumed, posing further health risks. From an environmental perspective, plastic contamination contributes to the growing issue of plastic pollution, as these foreign materials can end up in landfills or natural ecosystems, impacting wildlife and the overall ecological balance.
To prevent plastic contamination in ice cream and other food products, manufacturers must adhere to strict quality control measures. This includes implementing proper procedures during production, using suitable equipment, and regularly inspecting the products for any foreign materials. By prioritizing consumer safety and sustainability, companies can minimize the risk of plastic contamination and maintain the trust of their customers. It is also essential for consumers to be vigilant and report any suspected contamination, as this proactive approach can help protect others and improve the overall safety of the food supply chain.
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Paper seals as an alternative
Plastic seals are commonly used to secure ice cream containers and prevent tampering. However, some companies and consumers are exploring alternative sealing options, such as paper seals, to reduce plastic waste and improve sustainability. Paper seals offer a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to plastic seals, addressing concerns about plastic waste and pollution.
Paper seals, made from quality paper with good adhesion, can be an effective and secure alternative to plastic seals for ice cream containers. These seals are designed to be placed over the lids of ice cream containers, providing evidence of tampering and assuring customers that their product has not been compromised. Paper seals offer several advantages over plastic seals. Firstly, they are environmentally friendly and biodegradable, reducing the amount of plastic waste generated from ice cream packaging. This shift towards sustainability is increasingly important for environmentally conscious consumers and companies alike.
Paper seals are also practical and functional. They are easy to use, with strong adhesion that prevents accidental tearing during normal handling and transportation. The seals can be easily peeled and stuck onto lids, and they leave no residue when removed. This feature is particularly advantageous for ice cream companies and distributors, ensuring that the seals do not leave any unwanted marks or residue on the packaging. Additionally, paper seals can be designed with cute patterns and bright colours, adding a visually appealing element to the packaging while also serving their functional purpose.
Furthermore, paper seals address the concerns of consumers who worry about potential tampering with their ice cream products. While some ice cream companies, like Blue Bell Creameries, argue that their natural seals formed by freezing the lids tightly to the carton are sufficient to detect tampering, many consumers still prefer the added reassurance of a physical seal. Paper seals provide this assurance without contributing to plastic waste.
Some companies, like Ben & Jerry's, are actively experimenting with removing plastic seals from their ice cream containers. They are exploring alternatives, such as paper/cardboard tabs, to replace plastic tamper bands. This move aligns with their sustainability initiatives, including their efforts to reduce petroleum-based plastic in their packaging and increase recyclability. By removing the plastic sealing tape, Ben & Jerry's estimates a significant reduction of 96 tons of plastic per year without compromising the quality and safety of their ice cream.
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Plastic seal around the lid vs. on top of ice cream
Plastic seals are used in ice cream packaging to ensure the product has not been tampered with. While some brands are experimenting with removing the plastic seal to improve sustainability, this has caused concern among customers about the security of their ice cream.
Ben & Jerry's, for example, has been testing the removal of the plastic wrap, or tamper tape, from around the outside of its cardboard lids. The company has stated that by removing the sealing tape, it can save 96 tons of plastic per year. Ben & Jerry's has reassured customers that all products made in its factory are checked using various laboratory analyses and operator controls, including a metal detector, before being released.
However, some customers have expressed worry about potential tampering outside of the company's control, in the distribution chain. One customer suggested that Ben & Jerry's could use a paper or cardboard tab as a seal to replace the plastic tamper band, which would be more environmentally friendly and provide reassurance to customers.
Another brand mentioned in the search results is Talenti gelato, which has reverted to having a paper seal underneath the lid. Meanwhile, Breyers, another brand owned by Unilever, has gone back to using a plastic seal on the lid in most locations in the United States.
It is worth noting that plastic contamination in ice cream can be a serious issue. In one instance, Wells Enterprises, the company that produces Blue Bunny and Halo Top ice cream, recalled nearly 18,000 containers of ice cream and frozen yogurt due to the possibility of plastic pieces in the batches.
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Frequently asked questions
Ben & Jerry's has been working to reduce the petroleum-based plastic in its packaging. It is testing the complete removal of the plastic wrap and tamper tape from around the outside of its cardboard lids. The company uses laboratory analyses and operator controls to ensure its products are protected.
Talenti gelato and Breyers are two brands that use plastic seals on their ice cream products.
If you find plastic in your ice cream, do not consume the product. Contact the manufacturer to report the issue and request a refund or replacement.
Consumption of ice cream contaminated with plastic can cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.
