Disadvantages and Challenges

• Barrier Properties: Standard single-layer plastic tubes offer less protection against oxygen and light permeation compared to laminate tubes (which have an aluminum layer). This can lead to formula degradation over time for sensitive ingredients like vitamins or certain oils.

• "Suck-Back" Issue: With some designs, air can be drawn back into the tube after squeezing, which can cause the product to dry out or crust around the nozzle.

• Sustainability Concerns: This is the biggest challenge. Traditional plastic tubes are often not widely recycled in curbside programs, contributing to plastic waste.

  The Critical Issue: Sustainability & Recycling

  The industry is rapidly evolving to address the environmental impact of plastic tubes.

  
  

  
  

  Solution	Description
  Mono-Material Tubes	Tubes made from a single type of plastic (e.g., 100% PE or 100% PP). These are much more recyclable than multi-layer laminates because they don't require material separation. This is the leading trend.
  Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Plastic	Tubes are manufactured using recycled plastic content (e.g., 25%, 50%, or even 100% PCR). This reduces the reliance on virgin plastic.
  Recycling Programs	Some brands partner with organizations like Terracycle to create take-back programs, ensuring the tubes are collected and recycled properly.
  Biobased Plastics	Tubes made from plastics derived from renewable resources like sugarcane (e.g., Green PE). It's important to note that biobased plastics are not necessarily biodegradable; they often recycle just like traditional PE.

  

  

  Plastic vs. Laminate Tubes: A Quick Comparison

  
  

  
  

  Feature	Plastic Tube (PE/PP)	Laminate Tube
  Barrier Protection	Good	Excellent (best for sensitive formulas)
  Squeezability	Excellent (soft)	Good (can feel a bit stiffer)
  Opacity	Can be transparent or opaque	Usually opaque/pearlized
  Sustainability	Good (if Mono-Material)	Poor/Difficult to Recycle
  Cost	Generally lower	Generally higher

  Conclusion

  The plastic squeeze tube remains a dominant force in packaging due to its practicality, cost-effectiveness, and excellent user experience. The key for brands today is to select the right type of plastic and prioritize mono-material, recyclable designs to meet modern consumer demands for sustainability.