Organic Valley Frequently Asked Questions

About Organic Valley Cartons

Why does Organic Valley use paperboard milk cartons?

Paperboard cartons protect the flavor and nutritional value of the milk. Milk loses valuable nutrients and develops unpleasant flavors when exposed to light. The paperboard prevents 96% of light exposure. Our milk maintains as much farm-fresh flavor and nutrition as possible. Additionally, paper is a renewable resource. Lightweight and inexpensive, it makes freight and packaging less of a cost to the consumer. Many communities now offer a recycling program for paperboard.

What about reusable containers?

We are attracted to the possibility of a reusable container. However, packaging in a glass or polycarbonate material like lexan poses some negative environmental impact because of production pollutants from manufacturing. Furthermore, the extra costs for transportation and washing come into consideration. As we continue material research, quality of product has the most impact on our packaging decisions.

Is dioxin released into the environment during the manufacturing of paperboard cartons?

We avoid using materials known to cause the formation of chlorinated organic compounds such as dioxin. The use of elemental chlorine to bleach the paper can lead to the creation of dioxin. Organic Valley uses paperboard cartons that are produced without elemental chlorine. The independent family farmers who own Organic Valley do not use pesticides, synthetic hormones, or antibiotics in production and the continuum of environment-conscious practice runs through our entire process, from farm to consumer.

Are the inks or adhesives made with heavy metals?

None of the heavy metals like antimony, arsenic, water soluble barium, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, lead, mercury, selenium or silver are added to or used in the production of the inks or resins. Rather, the colors are in a water-based ink.

We care for the earth while bringing you the highest quality food