In a recent press release, UPM Specialty Materials and Felix Schoeller announced that they introduce customizable, fiber-based solution for flexible food packaging.
The press release states that "UPM Specialty Materials and Felix Schoeller, a specialty paper manufacturer, have developed a customizable recyclable* barrier solution designed specifically for flexible food packaging, such as chocolate and snack bars. In response to the growing demand for recyclable packaging, this food-safe, fibre-based solution supports the packaging industry's transition toward upcoming recyclability requirements under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
As brand owners face diverse packaging needs, the collaboration addresses varying end-use requirements by offering customizable levels of barrier protection. Based on UPM SolideTM Lucent packaging paper, Felix Schoeller has created a barrier concept that can be tailored to the specific performance requirements of different products."
Innovations like this demonstrate how partnerships can accelerate scalable, recyclable solutions.
Henkel also recently announced that it expands its barrier and heat seal coatings portfolio for paper applications.
The press release states "Paper-based packaging has become much more than just a matter of image, particularly in the food and e-commerce sectors. Brand owners and packaging manufacturers are switching to sustainable and, above all, recyclable solutions, driven by regulatory requirements such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). To support this transition while maintaining product integrity, process stability and efficiency, Henkel Adhesive Technologies is enhancing its paper coatings portfolio with water-based barrier and heat seal coatings. The solutions are designed to improve the functionality of paper-based packaging and strengthen 'design for recycling' approaches."
The press release goes on to state that "Depending on the intended use of the paper packaging, the focus is not only on efficiently and securely sealing the material but also protecting the contents through functional barriers. Barrier coatings provide paper-based packaging with essential protective properties thereby opening up areas of application that previously demanded plastic-based or multi-layer composite materials. With the right formulation, they not only provide the necessary resistance to grease, water, and moisture, they also enable reliable heat sealing. In response to growing market demand, Henkel has expanded and optimized its portfolio, offering coating solutions that deliver reliable barrier performance for primary and secondary packaging. These products can easily be integrated into standard coating and packaging processes and are repulpable and compatible with recycling."
With regulatory pressure from initiatives like the EU's PPWR and rising expectations from both brands and consumers, solutions that balance performance with recyclability will define the next phase of packaging.
We will keep you apprised of further developments.
Helen Roush is Executive Vice President of Paperitalo Publications.
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