Tetra Pak and Spanish seafood producer Jealsa have introduced what they describe as the industry’s first carton packaging format for shelf-stable tuna using the Tetra Recart® system.
The product was launched in Sweden in May 2026 through retailer Axfood in a 200 ml Mini format and is now being made available to food producers and brands globally. The development combines Tetra Pak’s packaging technology with Jealsa’s experience in shelf-stable seafood production.
Traditionally packaged in metal cans, shelf-stable tuna represents a significant segment of the global seafood market. According to the companies, the global shelf-stable tuna market is expected to grow by 12% to reach 12.4 billion units by 2030, reflecting continued demand for affordable and long-lasting protein products.
The new carton format is designed for a range of tuna products, including spreads, flakes, shredded tuna and chunks. Additional product formats are expected to be introduced as the category develops.
Tatiana Liceti, Executive Vice President, Packaging Solutions at Tetra Pak, said: “With the industry’s first carton for shelf stable tuna in Tetra Recart, we are giving producers and brands a new way to stand out on shelf, support cost competitive, scalable production, and modernise with a paper-based alternative to cans.”
Jesús M. Alonso Escurís, President of Jealsa, added: “The launch of this market-leading product sets a new benchmark for the industry. Through our collaboration with Tetra Pak, we’ve brought a packaging solution to market that responds to evolving consumer expectations.”
According to consumer research cited by the companies, more than 80% of consumers surveyed said they would consider purchasing tuna packaged in Tetra Recart, while 58% indicated a preference for the format over existing packaging alternatives.
The package contains up to 71% FSC-certified paper and is intended to provide an alternative packaging option for seafood producers seeking different formats for shelf-stable products. Jealsa plans to introduce products in the format under its brands Rianxeira, Mare Aperto and Robinson Crusoe, as well as through third-party brands.