Four decades ago, at Grupo Torrent, we developed, patented, and launched the world’s first 100% non-refillable stopper. We saw the need to provide spirits with a secure system against refilling and counterfeiting at that time. Only a material like plastic offered those guarantees. Since then, we haven’t stopped evolving, offering the market different options for closure solutions, adapting to the branding and needs of the products.
Advantages of plastic in the manufacturing of stoppers
The use of plastic in the closures sector is fundamental. It provides unique properties that other materials don’t offer. These are some of its most notable advantages:
- Safety: Plastic is stable and doesn’t transfer components to the contents. Proof of this is its use in containers for sulfuric acid, one of the most corrosive materials that exists.
- Design and Versatility: Its malleability allows it to be adapted to different formats, guaranteeing a wide range of closure solutions.
- Technical Innovation: It facilitates the development of non-refillable systems that prevent counterfeiting and protect product integrity.
- Lightness: It facilitates the transport and handling of the final product.
- Food Safety: It is completely suitable for food use and complies with strict European regulations.
- Recyclability: It is easily recyclable, which makes it a sustainable option within a circular economy.
- Durability: It allows products to be protected for years without loss of quality (for example, bottles of liquor with more than 10 years on the market).
- Safety in Daily Use: It avoids risks such as the use of glass pourers, improving the consumer’s user experience.
Non-Refillable Plastic Stoppers: Protection and Durability
Furthermore, another advantage of plastic in the manufacturing of our non-refillable stoppers is that they seal liquor bottles, sometimes protecting the product for over 10 years without losing quality or properties. Plastic’s non-refillability systems, in addition to helping us preserve product qualities and prevent refilling and counterfeiting, facilitate synergies with other materials. This allows us to offer our clients a wide range of closures for every type of product.
On the other hand, with the user’s safety in mind, the pourers of closure systems should also be made of plastic. Did you know that the consumer has a usage experience of over 150 times with each bottle of oil that has a non-refillable stopper? Now, let’s think for a moment that the pourer was made of glass. Would that truly guarantee the bottle’s stable use and the user’s safety?
Commitment to sustainability in the production of plastic closures
At Grupo Torrent, we aim to apply simple solutions to complex challenges, seeking fluid measures that favor the best alternatives. Polymers help us in this regard, thanks to their versatility. Eliminating plastics is not the solution, as they offer more good properties than bad.
Science is working hard on biomaterials, which solve the CO₂ footprint in their manufacturing. However, this is not currently a feasible reality for various reasons. But the solution isn’t just there. If we replace plastics with other raw materials, waste will still end up in the oceans and on the forest floor. Ultimately, it’s a problem of waste management and awareness at a social and administrative level.
At Torrent, progress in sustainable actions is constant. In fact, when it comes to thermoplastics, all batches from daily production that are not usable are reused.
Even though we focus on the advantages of plastic and its use, the real issue is the lack of waste management—both for this material and for all others. Creating the habit of recycling any disposable material should be inherent to our nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plastic Bottle Stoppers
What are the advantages of plastic bottle stoppers?
Plastic stoppers are lightweight, durable, recyclable, and suitable for food contact, complying with European regulations.
How do non-refillable plastic stoppers ensure product safety?
These stoppers prevent refilling and counterfeiting, maintaining the quality of the contents and protecting the consumer.
What measures does Grupo Torrent take to ensure sustainability in the production of plastic stoppers?
Grupo Torrent reuses materials, applies ecodesign principles, and promotes responsible waste management in its production process.