ALDI LAUNCHES FIRST PACKAGING-FREE PRODUCTS TRIAL

Aldi has launched a trial selling its first packaging-free products to help customers shop more sustainably.   The trial is available at one store in Ulverston, Cumbria, but if successful, Aldi will look to develop its refillable options in other stores in the future.   Four household staples – basmati rice, brown rice, penne pasta and wholewheat fusilli – are available to buy loose in store.   The move could remove more than 130 tonnes – or more than 21 million pieces – of plastic annually from stores.   The products are available by weight, and Aldi will provide customers with free paper bags that are fully recyclable and made of FSC-certified material.   Richard Gorman, Plastics and Packaging Director at Aldi, said: “Customers at our Ulverston store can now buy the same high-quality items they know and love, while also cutting down on plastic packaging.   “We’re always looking for new ways to reduce waste plastic and limit packaging, as many of our shoppers are increasingly conscious of the environment and their impact on it.   “We hope local customers embrace the trial and we will use their feedback to inform any future plans around refillable products.”   In 2020, Aldi announced its ambitious new commitment to halve the volume of plastic packaging used by 2025. This will see it remove 74,000 tonnes of plastic packaging from products over the next five years.   The supermarket, which has been carbon neutral since January 2019, is also on track to have all own-label products as recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2022, and branded products sold at Aldi by 2025.

Avient Debuts Next-Generation CESA™ Nofog Plus for Hot and Cold Food Packaging

SHENZHEN, China – April 13, 2021 – As ready-to-eat foods, ready-to-cook foods, and food delivery services experience rapid growth, the demand for better food packaging has also increased. Today at Chinaplas 2021, Avient unveiled the next-generation of its anti-fog additive, CESA™ Nofog Plus, which helps prevent fog for both hot and cold packaging.    By reducing moisture accumulation, CESA Nofog Plus helps prolong the shelf life of packaged foods. It can clear fogging immediately in hot conditions, and within 5 minutes in cold conditions. Lids and protective films produced with this food contact-safe additive also remain clear, so that consumers can observe the food quality.    This additive can be used in both rigid and flexible food packaging, including mono- and multilayer structures. It is suitable for thermoformed sheets as well as transparent food packaging, agricultural, and protective films.    “By helping to maintain the freshness of food in packaging and limiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, it’s possible to reduce food waste and improve food hygiene,” said Say-Eng Lee, vice president and general manager, Color & Additives Asia. Available as a solid masterbatch, the additive can be extruded with packaging resins without the need for extra equipment. It is also compliant with US FDA and EU regulations.   Avient is advancing packaging performance and sustainability through innovation and collaboration, and will be exhibiting these capabilities at Chinaplas 2021 in hall 16, booth 16J41.       About Avient Avient Corporation (NYSE: AVNT), with 2020 pro forma revenues of $3.8 billion, provides specialized and sustainable material solutions that transform customer challenges into opportunities, bringing new products to life for a better world.   Examples include: •    Barrier technologies that preserve the shelf-life and quality of food, beverages, medicine and other perishable goods through high-performance materials that require less plastic•    Light-weighting solutions that replace heavier traditional materials like metal, glass and wood, which can improve fuel efficiency in all modes of transportation•    Breakthrough technologies that minimize wastewater and improve the recyclability of materials and packaging across a spectrum of end uses   Avient employs approximately 8,400 associates and is certified ACC Responsible Care®, a founding member of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste and certified Great Place to Work®.    For more information, visit www.avient.com. To access Avient’s news library online, please visit www.avient.com/news. Origin:https://www.avient.com/avient-debuts-next-generation-cesa-nofog-plus-hot-and-cold-food-packaging

Versalis to launch new product for food packaging made with 75% post-consumer polystyrene

San Donato Milanese (MI), 07 April 2021 - Versalis, Eni's chemical company, is today expanding  its range of “circular” products, made from recycled raw materials. The Versalis Revive® portfolio will now include a new product for food packaging made with 75% domestic post-consumer polystyrene.   The product, referred to as Versalis Revive® PS Air F - Series Forever, is the result of the existing collaboration with Forever Plast S.p.A., a leading Italian company in the recycling of post-consumer products into high-quality raw materials, and has been developed as part of a collaborative project with various players in the polystyrene industry value chain: Corepla*, ProFood* and Unionplast*. This collaboration has given rise to an innovative recyclable tray suitable for food and composed of recycled polystyrene developed by the companies that are members of Pro Food.   The tray consists of an inner layer containing Versalis Revive® PS Air F - Series Forever and two outer layers made from virgin polystyrene. This structure, known as the A-B-A functional barrier, ensures food contact compliance. The functional barrier design and stringent testing were developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging (IVV), a leading German applied research institute that works with industries to develop viable technologies for bringing innovative products to the market.   The Versalis Revive® PS Air F – Series Forever is scheduled to be marketed over the next few weeks and is mainly aimed at the meat and fish packaging market.   The Versalis Revive® range comprises products exclusively from mechanical recycling of post-consumer and plastics and those from the industry supply chain. In addition to Versalis Revive® PS, other polymer-based products are available on the market: expandable polystyrene (Versalis Revive® EPS) and polyethylene (Versalis Revive® PE).       *Corepla (National Consortium for the Collection, Recycling and Recovery of Plastic Packaging), ProFood (Association of Food Processors) and Unionplast (Plastic Rubber Federation).   Origin: https://www.eni.com/en-IT/media/press-release/2021/04/cs-versalis-lancia-nuovo-prodotto.html

Mondi's new packaging for Bell Germany's ‘Abraham’ ham range requires 37% less material and saves 35 tonnes of plastic

Food producer Bell Germany is set to launch new recyclable packaging for its sliced ham range, developed by Mondi and available on shelves in spring 2021 Mondi’s WalletPack protects the ham, and the environment, by preventing food spoilage and improving recyclability The lightweight material decreases plastic waste by 35 tonnes per year for Bell Germany   30 March 2021 – Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, has produced recyclable packaging for Bell Germany’s ‘Abraham’ range of thinly sliced gourmet ham that ensures perfect conformity with existing recycling guidelines.   Bell Germany is launching a mono-material recyclable WalletPack in March for over 30 products including Seranno, Prosciutto and Savoy sliced ham. The new solution will replace a multi-material non-recyclable plastic solution, using 37% less material compared to standard modified atmosphere packaging. This switch will also reduce plastic waste for Bell Germany by 35 tonnes per year thanks to the lightweight solution. It will also lower waste disposal fees for Bell Germany and meets the design for recycling guidelines of leading retailers[1].   Created after two years of development, the new Mondi WalletPack operates as a folder, which the consumer opens to unpack the product. It features a re-close function on the backside to prevent food spoilage, provides excellent protection for thinly sliced deli meats, and has been verified by the German institute cyclos-HTP as 93% recyclable.   Thomas Kahl, EcoSolutions Project Manager, Mondi, says: “Our aim is to create packaging that is sustainable by design. It should be better for the environment, while protecting the food, and standing out on shelves to represent the Abraham brand. Our unique EcoSolutions approach takes all these elements into consideration: we worked closely with Bell Germany at every stage to ensure that this was the best solution for all their products.”   Jessica Trautmann, Senior-Productmanager, Bell Deutschland adds: “As with all food packaging, the priority is to protect the contents, however it has been our aim for some time to improve the recyclability of our packaging as we look to make all parts of our business more sustainable. Mondi has been a valuable partner in the creation of this solution and we are delighted to be launching this new packaging that is recyclable, while being functional and attractive on the shelf.”   The new packaging will be launched with German retailers from March 2021.   Learn more about our EcoSolutions approach here.       [1] Figures on savings calculated by Bell Germany.       Reader enquiries Mondi GroupMarxergasse 4A1030 ViennaAustria +43 1 79013 4059 www.mondigroup.com mondi-group

Multipurpose bioplastic from soy residues: A pilot plant to Finland

Four companies have collaborated to develop the first process in the world to produce compostable bioplastic from food and feed production side streams. A biopolymer plant will be built in Uusikaupunki, Finland, in which bioplastic production will be piloted on an industrial scale. Finnfoam, Brightplus, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and Nordic Soya have explored together the possibilities of soy molasses, i.e. soy processing side stream, as a raw material of the future. The research project, partly funded by Business Finland, took four years. "The process developed as an outcome of this cooperation project is the first in the world to produce an ecological lactic acid polymer from the side streams of soy production. This way we can offer a sustainable alternative to sugar and corn based polylactic acid, i.e. PLA, says Henri Nieminen, CEO of Finnfoam.   Soy molasses, which is not suitable for food, has previously been disposed of by incineration. Producing biomaterials from side streams of food production also improves the food production value chain. Nordic Soya Oy uses soy grown in Europe in its Uusikaupunki plant. Soy molasses left over from its processing has been used as the raw material in the research. This Finnish innovation combines synthetic biology, chemistry and material technology in a completely new way.   "This project is both an excellent example of what expertise in industrial biotechnology can achieve and a triumph in converting a challenging industrial residue into a higher value product using microbes. This endeavour required significant efforts in technology at various stages of the process. It particularly made use of VTT's expertise in synthetic biology, the modification of microbes and optimisation of bioprocesses,” says Tiina Nakari-Setälä, Vice President, Strategy and Business Intelligence at VTT.       An ecological alternative to plastic In the future, this Finnish sustainable concept for the development and production of bio-based raw material can be extended to new markets where soybean is processed for food and feed production. Bioplastic produced from the residues of soy processing has huge potential as a scalable export product in circular economy. Globally, residues from soy production could produce around 22 million tonnes of bioplastic per year. Also known for its medical applications, bioplastic is also ideal for, e.g., the manufacture of various compostable packaging applications and 3D-printing filaments.   Finnfoam intends to use the new bioplastic in the production of thermal insulation for buildings. Its ecological quality is enhanced by the fact that thermal insulation also serves as a carbon sink, thus helping to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. The new plant operating by the end of 2023 For the purpose of piloting new biomaterial innovations, the companies are launching a pilot plant project in Uusikaupunki in connection with Nordic Soya Oy, the largest soy protein concentrate processing plant in EU. The pilot plant will be built during 2021-2022. The full-scale plant will be operating by the end of 2023. "When completed, the pilot plant will significantly support Finland's sustainable development ecosystem and creation of future jobs," says Tiina Nakari-Setälä of VTT. At the beginning of 2021, Finnfoam Oy was divided into two companies, of which FF-Future will focus on future solutions. The pilot plant project is FF-Future's first major investment. "Finland has a huge potential to become a pioneer in biomaterials, but this requires resources for testing the scalability of the production process. We want to build concrete resources for the national ecosystem in the industry, and we are looking for partners who are interested in building the production of Finnish biomaterials and commercialising it for the global markets,” says Henri Nieminen.     Looking for pioneer-minded partners Brightplus Oy, responsible for coordinating the project, produces new green chemistry innovations together with its partners that can be tested at the pilot plant. "It is a major technological step forward that side streams that are unusable in food production can now be used to produce responsible high value bio-based products," says Jarkko Leivo, Technology Director of Brightplus Oy. “Depending on the application, we can modify the properties of the biomaterial, such as its transparency and thermoformability, or improve its chemical resistance and reusability. We are now looking for pioneer-minded partners interested in this great technology with whom we can develop more innovative applications for this biopolymer.” Henri Nieminen, the initiator of the project, expresses his gratitude to Brightplus and VTT for the technical success of the project, having developed a functional concept from thousands of alternatives examined, as well as Business Finland, whose financial support has been a prerequisite for the success of the project.       Further information   Henri Nieminen CEO Finnfoam Oy +358400636992 henri.nieminen@finnfoam.fi   Jarkko Leivo Technology Director Brightplus Oy +358503226455jarkko.leivo@brightplus.com   Tiina Nakari-Setälä Vice President, Strategy and Business Intelligence VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd +358408215794 tiina.nakari-setala@vtt.fi   Veli-Matti Reunasalo CEO Nordic Soya Oy +3585060134 veli-matti.reunasalo@nordicsoya.com     Finnfoam Oy Finnfoam Oy is a family-owned company founded in 1982 focused on production of thermal insulation materials. Finnfoam is one of the leading Baltic region producer of thermal insulation boards for building and construction insulation purposes, such as ground frost, base, wall and roof insulation materials. Main products are Finnfoam (XPS), FF-EPS and FF-PIR insulation boards. Finnfoam Oy is strongly committed to circular economy and generating more sustainable solutions for thermal insulation. Read more: www.finnfoam.com   Brightplus Oy Brightplus is a pioneering Finnish biosourced materials company. We create reusable, recyclable and biodegradable side-stream material solutions with our visionary chemistry. Our versatile offering ranges from coating and barrier solutions to plastic replacement materials. Brightplus supports leading global manufacturers and major brands in e.g. packaging, consumer goods and agriculture to achieve their sustainability goals. Our multitalented team works closely with customers to co-create innovations that seamlessly comply with their existing processing methods and requirements. Our side-stream solutions reduce the circularity gap and meet the EU Green Deal 2030 targets. Read more: www.brightplus.com   VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd VTT is a visionary research, development and innovation partner. We drive sustainable growth and tackle the biggest global challenges of our time, and turn them into growth opportunities. We go beyond the obvious to help the society and companies to grow through technological innovations. We have almost 80 years of experience of top-level research and science-based results. VTT is at the sweet spot where innovation and business come together. Read more: https://www.vttresearch.com/fi   Nordic Soya Oy Nordic Soya production facility is the largest full scale, multi-stage soy processing plant in the European Union. The annual soybean processing capacity is 240,000 tonnes for feed, food and technology industries. Our main products include soybean meal, soy protein concentrate (SPC) and soy oil with co-products of soy molasses, lecithin and soy hulls. We are certified Europe Soya, Pro Terra and FoodChainID non-GMO refining facility, holding a membership of the Round Table on Responsible Soy Association. Our goal is to be Europe’s leading producer of further refined, high quality soy raw materials for the food and feed industries. Read more: https://www.nordicsoya.com/

Smurfit Kappa develops sustainable packaging solution for Signify's antibacterial light

Smurfit Kappa has designed a new integrated packaging system following close collaboration with Signify, the world leader in connected LED lighting systems, by designing the BioShift UV-C Chamber Case, used to ship and transport UV-C lights that have significant antibacterial properties, which kill germs and viruses.  The new packaging solution is a 100% mono-material paper-based solution, that removes all plastics and reduces the number of packaging materials used, from five to one. The BioShift case is secured by a fit-to-size hood with special multi-use locks. The case is then placed on a corrugated pallet. In addition to providing a more sustainable solution, the new integrated packaging system also reduces costs. The BioShift UV-C Chamber’s lightweight design reduces assembly labour by 50% and reduces storage space by 30% which allows for 16 additional pallets per truck. The new packaging also guarantees 100% security during transport. Damian Grzelak, Signify Strategic Buyer Packaging EMEA, said: “UV-C lights are a growing segment of business for us, particularly in the context of the global pandemic. Smurfit Kappa has been vital in helping us reduce costs and ship our product in a safe and more sustainable manner.” Separately, Smurfit Kappa has worked with Signify to remove almost all Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) from its packaging in Europe, helping Signify achieve its goal of carbon neutrality. Commenting on the collaboration, Smurfit Kappa VP of Innovation and Development, Arco Berkenbosch stated: “The relationship between Smurfit Kappa and Signify has grown from strength to strength. We are delighted to help our customers find innovative, cost effective and sustainable packaging solutions for new and exciting products they are bringing to their markets.” Jacek Nieweglowski, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Poland added: “Working with Signify locally to create a more sustainable packaging, that is innovative in design and optimised from a cost perspective, has brought a great sense of pride to our team, especially by supporting the world-wide shipping of a product with benefits of protection against viruses.” The BioShift UV-C Chamber Case is a part of Smurfit Kappa’s Better Planet Packaging portfolio of products, which offer substantial alternatives to single-use plastics, as they are renewable, recyclable and if littered biodegrade naturally without leaving a trace.

A Can that Connects – and Fulfils Consumer Hygiene Expectations

CCL Label presents CANtastic, combining an aluminium can and shrink sleeve for an innovative and safe drinking experience   CCL Label, the world leader in specialty label and packaging solutions, presents CANtastic a new type of aluminium can packaging that offers maximum hygiene and ideal marketing possibilities for promotions. “This new packaging product is all about connection and protection – it guarantees maximum cleanliness from production to the Point-of-Sale in supermarkets, convenience stores or gasoline stations, were cans are often openly displayed in an unprotected environment to catch the attention of the consumer. With CANtastic the cans are protected against all kinds of possible contaminations while ideally promoting the brand owner’s message”, says Reinhard Streit, Vice President and Managing Director Food&Beverage at CCL Label. “It goes further than other aluminium cans available in the market, allowing brand owners to build maximum trust with the consumers.”   CANtastic will consist of a aluminium can with an engineered sleeve and top label that provides a 360 degree safety seal for the can making it hygienic and safe to drink from. The packaging fulfils all official food safety standards and the can is also re-closable to prevent for example insects to enter the can via the opening.     Consumers demand more hygiene and food safety “We see that COVID-19 has transformed the consumer landscape – trust in brands is more important than ever. Health is now connected to heightened issues of food safety and hygiene with two-thirds saying that being healthy is being safe. Improving food safety is cited as the number one priority for manufacturers”. A study carried out by IPSOS* revealed that two thirds (66%) of consumers `concerned’ with the safety of their food and the Packaging Survey released by McKinsey** revealed that concerns connected to food safety and hygiene is a new trend amongst the top 6 packaging industry trends.       Promotions: Back to a “New Normal” “Once the lockdown restrictions are lifted and life becomes more normal again, we expect promotional activities from brand owners to become an important marketing tool again. Our CANtastic can offers ideal space for branding and consumer communication. Firstly, there is additional space on the lid for extra activities or design possibilities. Contests, lotteries and loyalty programs can easily be integrated as well as Virtual Reality elements or special QR codes for unique and secure digital identity”, explains Streit.       Sustainability: Aluminium Can are Widely Recycled The especially engineered sleeve and top construction allows for normal recycling of the aluminium can which very widely recycled in most countries. Aluminium is a 100% recyclable and sustainable metal and nearly 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use. Recycling aluminium saves over 90% of the energy needed to make new aluminium***.       More information: https://ccllabel.com/news/cantastic/ Contact:Claudia Beer, Marketing (cbeer@cclind.com) *https://www.ipsos.com/en-ca/two-thirds-66-concerned-safety-their-food** https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/paper-forest-products-and-packaging/ourinsights/sustainability-in-packaging-inside-the-minds-of-global-consumers***Source: European Aluminium https://www.european-aluminium.eu/

UNITED CAPS Unveils Industry-First ‘Define Your Circle’ Initiative

Simplifies life cycle sustainability metrics by combining elements of Life Cycle Assessment and Sustainability Certification   Wiltz, Luxembourg, 15 March 2021 – UNITED CAPS, an international manufacturer of caps and closures, today unveiled a new initiative, ‘Define Your Circle.’ As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, ‘Define Your Circle’ is designed to provide UNITED CAPS customers and their customers a simpler way to calculate full life-cycle environmental impact of their products, from before the materials enter the plant right through to its performance in the hands of the end user. In addition, ‘Define Your Circle’ offers a means to customers of contributing to the development of a truly circular economy, in which plastics are too valuable to waste, and are wasted when they are considered single-use.   “At UNITED CAPS, sustainability has always been at the core of our values,” said Benoit Henckes, CEO. “We are constantly looking for actions we can take to reduce the environmental impact of our caps and closures – how they are made, the materials they are constructed from, their weight, how they are sold and how they are distributed. With our industry-first ‘Define Your Circle’ initiative, we have extended that ability to our customers, providing easy-to-use tools that allow us to help them calculate their carbon footprint more accurately, taking actions where appropriate to reduce their life cycle environmental impact and make data-driven informed decisions about their products. We consider this to be a responsible approach to doing business in this era of climate change and negative human impact on the environment.”       What Makes ‘Define Your Circle’ Different?   UNITED CAPS are seeing a growing interest in the use of sustainability certified bio-based and recycled resins as part of an approach to product composition. At the same time, both customers and consumers have been seeking to better understand the weight of decisions they make in the realm of sustainability.   One way to measure environmental effect beyond just making assumptions about impact, which is probably the most frequent approach, is through a process called Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) that assesses the environmental impact of food packaging, including material used, end of life (waste), as well as other environmental impacts, such as the overall effects of fossil-fuel-based or bio-based feed stocks. The process also shows the impact on the overall carbon footprint by using lighter-weight (but equally as effective) caps and closures, smaller neck sizes and more.   Especially for smaller to mid-sized companies, this can be a challenging, complex and expensive process that requires specialists to complete. In addition, there are many misconceptions about the lifecycle environmental impact of various types of plastics, including those manufactured from fossil-fuel feed stocks and those manufactured from bio-based feed stocks.   “Our goal with ‘Define Your Circle’ is to give our customers a tool to make informed choices in consideration of their environmental impact and to compare our products with each other and with competitive products to reach the most sustainable solution possible,” Henckes explained.     ‘Define Your Circle’ offers manufacturers a data-based decision-making process to sustainability of product packaging.     Instead of depending on the complexities of a full LCA assessment, UNITED CAPS has chosen to leverage one of the industry’s largest life cycle assessment databases, GaBi, which is constantly updated as new technology and new insights come to the fore.   GaBi stems from the German words “Ganzheitliche Bilanzierung” for holistic balancing and has been around for a quarter of a century with the goal of easing the process of life cycle assessments. The UNITED CAPS ‘Define Your Circle’ tool gives customers access to this extensive database, delivering insight and guidance that leads to better sustainability decision making.   As part of this holistic approach, ‘Define Your Circle’ allows customers to analyse the environmental footprint of caps, closures, and the containers they are used with, making better decisions about many aspects of product manufacture and distribution.   “It’s important to recognise the complexities that surround making the right sustainability choices. UNITED CAPS have adopted an approach that places an emphasis on data-driven transparency to aid decision making,” says Henckes.   “Take for example, our KINDCAP for infant nutrition products” adds Henckes. “We designed it to be the lightest product on the market, but we wanted to dive deeper to help people understand what that really means”.    “By comparing our KINDCAP closure using the GaBi indicator with a standard 99 PE snap cap from Competitor X, we can see that KINDCAP is more than 20% more environmentally friendly in pretty much all aspects. From Water Scarcity to Climate Change and Resource Use, it is verifiably better for the planet.”   “But then if you wanted to go even further, we could ask the question, “What if, a customer wanted to make that closure from bio-based or recycled resins?”   It is a common belief that bio-based feed stocks that can be used for making plastic resin, such as corn or sugar cane, are the most sustainable approach. “If we further compare a typical PE snap cap made in the normal way versus a KINDCAP made with 50% bio-based resin, we can now have much greater understanding of the trade-offs involved in that decision. For example, the effect of reducing climate change would be substantial but the use of fertilizers and other chemicals can contribute to drinking water contamination.   This unique-in-the-industry approach that has been taken by UNITED CAPS and enables fact-based decision making quickly and easily.   The end-user solution adopted was to work with ISCC Plus Certified bio-based and recycled resins.  Suitable for food applications, this certification allows brands to communicate the partial use of certified resin (less than 100%). So, for example, a closure may have been produced with ISCC Certified Resin but the bottle was not.  In this example, the closure certification can be displayed on the packaging, aiding the consumer in making an informed choice.   “We often talk in terms of caps and closures that have to perform in the plant and in the hand; it is our hope that ’Define Your Circle’ will also encourage people to talk about performing for the planet as well”!   For more information about other products and services from UNITED CAPS, please visit www.unitedcaps.com.

FPA Announces 2021 Flexible Packaging Achievement Award Winners

Annapolis, Maryland: March 10, 2021 – The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), the leading advocate and voice for the growing U.S. flexible packaging industry, is pleased to announce the winners of its 65th Annual Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition. The winning entries were recognized during a virtual awards ceremony that was live-streamed on March 10th. This year, 75 package entries were submitted for the competition, with a total of 201 entries (some packages were entered into multiple categories). Twenty packages were honored with 27 Achievement Awards. The judges for this year’s competition included Cory Francer, Editor-in-Chief, Packaging Impressions; David Luttenberger, Global Packaging Director, Mintel Group Ltd.; and Keith Vorst, Ph.D., Director, Polymer and Food Protection Consortium, Iowa State University. Even though we’re amid a pandemic, the judges were thrilled at the number of entries for the competition. Luttenberger notes “I think the first thing that stood out was the number of entries. We've certainly had a unique and challenging year, but to have this many entries, as many, if not more, than we've had the past couple of years certainly was unexpected.” Technical innovation and sustainability continue to be a focus of the competition. “We saw some packaging that was what I would call the total package for new ideas and innovations,” says Vorst. “It’s not just one component but companies are looking at all the package components now, and that’s exciting.” Luttenberger notes “the technological innovations we saw this year were really unique, clever, and practical constructions, looking at the advancement of barriers, particularly for recyclable materials and extending shelf life.”   An increasing trend seen for this year’s competition was the increase in international entries. We saw some entries from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia as well. So, really a nice global mix of packaging,” notes Francer. According to Vorst, “the international entries in many cases, brought some new technology to the game. I think we're seeing a different approach for packaging, maybe some things that we wouldn't typically see here in the U.S., and some of the entries that were entered were really impressive.” The printing quality of the entries this year was also remarked on by the judges. “The print quality that we saw this year was really, really impressive. Some amazing things are being done with the graphics in flexible packaging,” states Francer. Vorst agrees with Francer’s observation and adds, “it was the first thing that grabbed our attention.” Another trend seen for the competition is companies focusing on user experience for packaging. According to Luttenberger, “flexible packaging converters are recognizing that the end-user is not always a consumer - it could be an operating room technician, an EMT, or someone in a warehouse. Making sure that the packaging works as it's supposed to, and making sure that the product maintains safety, efficacy is protected, is easy to open, can tell us when it's already been opened is important. We have to think about the user experience in the context with who the user is, not just a shopper in a store or someone preparing a meal at home, for instance.”       2021 AWARD RECIPIENTS     HIGHEST ACHIEVEMENT AWARDThe Highest Achievement Award is evaluated by the judges as possessing overall packaging excellence, significant attributes in all award categories, and contributing most to the advancement of the industry.         Crunch Pak's Toy Story Lunch Kitz Awards: Highest Achievement Award Gold Award – Technical Innovation   Manufacturer: American Packaging Corporation, www.americanpackaging.comEnd-User/Customer: Crunch PakPlant: Story City, IAKey Supplier: American Packaging CorporationContact: Cindy Ingebritson, Corporate Marketing Specialist, cingebritson@americanpackaging.com, 515-733-1406 Description: American Packaging Corporation (APC) is proud to be part of the packaging for Crunch Pak’s Lunch Kitz. Lunch Kitz is a 4 oz. snack tray having individual compartments containing fresh sliced apples, an artisan cracker, string cheese, and Italian salami. The foods are fresh and healthy, including the salami which is without nitrates, nitrites, or artificial ingredients.**Please note that the recipient is aware of their Gold and Highest Achievement Award.**   --------------------------------------------------     GOLD ACHIEVEMENT AWARDSListed alphabetically by package name.         Amcor's Dual Chamber Pouch Award: Gold Award – Technical Innovation   Manufacturer: Amcor Flexibles, www.amcor.comEnd-User/Customer: Boston ScientificPlant: Mundelein, ILContact: Angelia Schiedemeyer, Sr. Marketing Communications, angelia.schiedemeyer@amcor.com, 920-527-7132 Description: The Amcor Dual Chamber Pouch is a specialty multi-layer pouch with a breathable membrane. The product consists of a peelable device chamber and a non-peelable desiccant chamber, and the desiccant is kept separate from the device with a symmetric coextruded vented nylon film. This solution is ideal for moisture sensitive products such as drug-coated products which may be adversely affected by reacting with various gasses found within the atmosphere of the package and is suitable for EtO sterilization.   --------------------------------------------------   Arbor Teas Organic Tea Award: Gold Award – Sustainability Manufacturers: Polykar (www.polykar.com), Eagle Flexible Packaging (www.eagleflexible.com), and Futamura USA, Inc. (www.futamuragroup.com)End-User/Customer: Arbor TeasPlant: Saint-Laurent, Quebec, CanadaDesigner/Design Firm: Arbor TeasKey Suppliers: Polykar, Eagle Flexible Packaging, and Futamura USA, Inc.Contact: Bryan Mongeau, Marketing Communications Specialist, bryan.mongeau@polykar.com, 514-264-8158   Description: Compostable films are united to create an environmentally friendly tea packaging solution. The labels of the packaging are composed of hemp-based or sugarcane-based paper. The sealant layer is PKBIO200C from Polykar. This film is derived from resin which is partially bio-based from corn feedstock. It has high clarity and a low seal initiation temperature. The print web of the multi-layer structure is NatureFlex™ from Futamura, a compostable cellulose film based on wood pulp from sustainably-managed sources. These materials also reduce the weight of the packaging when compared to paperboard tubes or kraft bags. The material in Arbor Teas’ packages requires a less optimized environment for biodegradation, representing a major advance in low-impact packaging.   --------------------------------------------------   ChameleonTM for Tyvek® Award: Gold Award – Expanding the Use of Flexible Packaging Manufacturer: PAXXUS, Inc., www.paxxus.comPlant: Addison, ILContact: Dhuanne Dodrill, CEO, dhuanne.dodrill@paxxus.com, 630-405-7801 Description: ChameleonTM for Tyvek® allows the user to readily evaluate the quality of a seal when used with uncoated Tyvek. Before opening, the seal shows as a darker color when viewed through the film side. Once the package has been peeled open, a vivid colored seal indicator presents on the Tyvek with a contrasting white seal indicator on the film. The easy ability for users to identify any seal flaws addresses the new EU Medical Device Regulation requirements that the "integrity of the packaging is clearly evident to the final user" while providing a consistent, smooth, fiber-free peel.   --------------------------------------------------   Hunter’s® Gourmet – Quinoa Chips Awards: Gold Award – Packaging ExcellenceGold Award – PrintingGold Award – Shelf Impact   Manufacturer: Emirates Printing Press, L.L.C., www.eppdubai.comEnd-User/Customer: Hunter Foods – UAEPlant: Dubai, UAEContact: Joseph Binoy, Senior Sales Manager, joseph.binoy@eppdubai.com, +97145039999 Description: The first thing that consumers remember about a brand is its color. The print on matte OPP with a white background and multiple colors gives the package a very rich look, and the shelf appearance influences the consumers to buy the product. The structure of the package is 20μ matte OPP + 12μ metalized PET + 60μ LDPE-TR and maintains the required barrier for the chips.   --------------------------------------------------   Industrial Compostable Coffee Pod Lidding & Mother Bag Award: Gold Award – Sustainability Manufacturer: TC Transcontinental Packaging, www.tctranscontinental.com/packagingEnd-User/Customer: Maxwell House Coffee CanadaPlant: Brooklyn, NYContact: Diana Courtepatte, Customer & Sales Solutions Manager, diana.courtepatte@tc.tc, 416-998-2214   Description: Both the pod lidding and mother bag are certified by the BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute), meaning that it is certified to breakdown in industrial composting. They are made from a high percentage of plant-based materials providing a sustainable solution for the single-serve coffee industry to mitigate landfill waste. The entire solution has a circular design with renewable inputs into the materials and a no separation pod design to ensure easy consumer disposal into the organics collection to be processed as industrial compost. The compostable lidding film has a good sealing performance as it seals onto the unique industrial compostable soft pod design and brown ring. The mother bag protects the pods and provides a barrier, all to help mitigate contamination in the end stream.   --------------------------------------------------   Infused Face Mask Award: Gold Award – Shelf Impact   Manufacturers: Karlville (www.karlville.com) and The Packaging Lab (www.thepkglab.com)End-User/Customer: NufabrxPlant: Brooklyn Park, MNDesigner/Design Firm: The Packaging LabKey Supplier: The Packaging LabContact: Raul Matos, Vice President, raul.matos@karlville.com, 305-533-1051 Description: Not all masks are created equal. The copper-infused face mask is impregnated with Shea Butter moisturizer as doctors, first responders, and millions of people are dealing with redness, irritation, or “maskne” caused by masks. For the packaging, the pouch is digitally printed, thermally laminated, and pouched all within 24 hours. To give moisture barrier the brand owner chose a BOPP. The structure is matte BOPP (1.1 mil)/EVA/ink /EVOH/PE (3.5 mil).   --------------------------------------------------   Nutra Dates 3D Pouch Award: Gold Award – Printing   Manufacturer: Emirates Printing Press, L.L.C., www.eppdubai.comEnd-User/Customer: Al Foah DatesPlant: Dubai, UAEContact: Joseph Binoy, Senior Sales Manager, joseph.binoy@eppdubai.com, +97145039999 Description: The Nutra Dates 3D Pouch compliments the contrast between the matte look with a patterned golden metallic design. The date image is designed to create a superior impact on the shelf and comes with a reclosable zipper to maintain product freshness and laser scoring for consumer convenience.   --------------------------------------------------   Ruffles® Lime and Jalapeño Anthony Davis Bags Awards: Gold Award – Packaging ExcellenceGold Award – PrintingGold Award – Shelf Impact   Manufacturer: Printpack, www.printpack.comEnd-User/Customer: Frito-LayPlant: Villa Rica, GAContact: Lisa Preston, Marketing Communications Manager, lpreston@printpack.com, 404-460-7441 Description: Ruffles®’ new Lime and Jalapeño chip flavor is a collaboration between two bold and dynamic brands, Ruffles® and basketball star Anthony Davis. The collaboration was inspired by Davis' multidimensional personality and Ruffles®’ spirit of individuality. Three package designs reference Anthony Davis’ #3 jersey. Each package features one of two images of Mr. Davis placed on one of three different backgrounds of bold waves. The wavy lines of the package represent both Ruffles®’ iconic texture and Davis’ trademarked unibrow. These limited-edition bags marks the first time in Frito-Lay history that a chip package features a celebrity likeness.   --------------------------------------------------   Shield Pack® Clear High Barrier Aseptic IBC Liner Award: Gold Award – Technical Innovation Manufacturer: Amcor Flexibles, www.amcor.comPlant: Oshkosh, WIContact: Jennifer Hackinson, Marketing Communications Specialist, jennifer.hackinson@amcor.com, 920-527-5604   Description: The Shield Pack® Clear High Barrier Aseptic IBC Liner provides the clarity and durability that the distribution process demands. This technology replaces laminated oriented metalized structures in applications where manufacturers are packaging up to 300 gallons of product for intermittent storage and transportation. The multi-layer structure safeguards against moisture, oxygen, and environmental contamination, while extending distribution range, reducing transit failures, improving product quality, and maintaining product color and vitamin retention.   --------------------------------------------------   Volga Shahi Gold Pouch Award: Gold Award – Printing Manufacturer: Emirates Printing Press, L.L.C., www.eppdubai.comEnd-User/Customer: Walq Foods Industries LLCPlant: Dubai, UAEContact: Joseph Binoy, Senior Sales Manager, joseph.binoy@eppdubai.com, +97145039999 Description: The Volga Shahi Gold Pouch is printed with inline registered matte coating which makes the pouch stand out on the shelf. High dart PE used inside the gusset improves the dart impact of the laminate, sustain drop tests and bursting strength during transport, and handling of the package. The artwork was designed to enhance the traditional feel. The matte and glossy look of the pouch creates excellent shelf appeal, helping it catch the immediate attention of the user. A 3D pouch technique was used to replace the conventional pouching and woven bag.   --------------------------------------------------     SILVER ACHIEVEMENT AWARDSListed alphabetically by package name.         50% Recycled Content Multi-Use E-Commerce Mailer Awards: Silver Award – Packaging ExcellenceSilver Award – Sustainability   Manufacturers: Manufacturers: Berry Global (www.berryglobal.com) and PAC Worldwide Corporation (www.pac.com)End-User/Customer: PAC Worldwide CorporationPlants: Danville, KY and Middletown, OHContact: Caleb Triplett, Product Manager - Flexible Packaging, calebtriplett@berryglobal.com, 336-469-2471 Description: Berry Global and PAC Worldwide Corporation co-developed a multi-use e-commerce mailer that contains an industry-leading 50% recycled content. Using a proprietary blend, this mailer advances the circular economy through a material reduction of 20% to competing mailers and the prior mailer used. Also, this mailer is part of a family of mailers that utilize an exclusive closed-loop system of recycled content supplied in partnership with one of PAC Worldwide’s e-commerce customers. Uniquely engineered for best-in-class output, high-opacity, low-light transmission, high-performance seal characteristics, and extreme toughness, this mailer helps e-commerce brands meet sustainability objectives without compromising on performance.   --------------------------------------------------   Amazon Tea Stand-up Pouch Award: Silver Award – Printing   Manufacturer: Emirates Printing Press, L.L.C., www.eppdubai.comEnd-User/Customer: Al Maras Tea Filling FactoryPlant: Dubai, UAEContact: Joseph Binoy, Senior Sales Manager, joseph.binoy@eppdubai.com, +97145039999 Description: The Amazon Tea Stand-up pouch is designed to create a superior impact on the shelf. The key features include rich vibrant colors and appealing visual effects achieved with 8 color gravure printing which makes the pouch distinctive. The printing on matte OPP with a very high-resolution product image gives the package a unique look. This pouch, both functional and elegant, is designed with a resealable zipper that keeps the product fresh for a longer time.   --------------------------------------------------   Aunt Millie's Live™ Organic BIOVANTAGE™ Bakery Bag Awards: Silver Award – SustainabilitySilver Award – Technical Innovation   Manufacturer: Berry Global, www.berryglobal.comEnd-User/Customer: Aunt Millie'sPlant: Macedon, NYContact: Caleb Triplett, Product Manager - Flexible Packaging, calebtriplett@berryglobal.com, 336-469-2471 Description: Aunt Millie’s Live™ Organic is a new family-farmed organic bread emphasizing social and environmental responsibility strengthened through the use of Berry Global’s BIOVANTAGE™ bakery film. This film contains 50% renewable, bio-based PE sourced from sugarcane. BIOVANTAGE™ is a drop-in for traditional PE films, with no change in performance or packaging properties. Also, BIOVANTAGE™ films are How2Recycle prequalified. Through the use of BIOVANTAGE™, Biorenewable Content (BRC) certified inks, and 15% downgauging, Aunt Millie’s reinforced the appeal of the Live™ Organic product line to the target audience of environmentally and socially responsible consumers.   --------------------------------------------------   Brookside Hershey’s Exotic Dark Pouch Award: Silver Award – Technical Innovation Manufacturer: Paharpur 3P, www.paharpur3p.comEnd-User/Customer: Hershey India Private Ltd.Plant: Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, IndiaDesigner/Design Firm: Paharpur 3P and Hershey India Private Ltd.Key Suppliers: Ester Industries Ltd., Henkel Adhesives Technologies India, and Sakata InxContact: Vipendra Tyagi, VP – R&D and Quality, vipendra.tyagi@paharpur3p.com, +91-0120-4389173 Description: This innovative peelable strip in a pouch was developed where the consumer initially sees the existing branding (Brookside) and then peels the strip away to unveil the new Hershey branding (Hershey’s Exotic Dark). The strip is an integral part of the pouch and is not a pressure-sensitive paper label. Paharpur 3P developed this concept, modified existing equipment, and was able to manufacture the pouches with a zipper and bottom gusset plus the registered strip with minimum tolerance. The challenge was to develop the laminate structure for the pouch and strip which should look similar to the existing laminate and exhibit good heat seal and easy peel properties. The specifications of the base gusset of pouches were slightly changed, and it passed all hurdles of machinability/barrier properties and standability.   --------------------------------------------------   CaPao Cacaofruit Smoothie Balls Award: Silver Award – Shelf Impact Manufacturer: ProAmpac, www.proampac.comEnd-User/Customer: MondelezPlant: Hartford, WIDesigner/Design Firm: BulletproofContact: Mariah Thurston, Marketing Coordinator, mariah.thurston@proampac.com, 413-875-9858 Description: CaPao brought to market their Cacaofruit Smoothie Balls – little balls of goodness – combining cacaofruit pulp with other fruits, nuts, and seeds to deliver a completely new plant-based snack experience. These bite-sized nourishing snacks are produced in a wind-powered manufacturing facility and are individually wrapped on a high-speed vertical form/fill/seal line with a unique recyclable high-barrier paper touch film, then placed in reclosable pouches also made with a unique recyclable high-barrier paper touch structure.   --------------------------------------------------   Krakatoa Hot Chips, 6.7 oz. Award: Silver Award – Shelf Impact Manufacturer: Printpack, www.printpack.comEnd-User/Customer: Amplify Snack BrandsPlant: Villa Rica, GADesigner/Design Firm: Jeff Day and Joanie Cahill, Amplify Snack BrandsContact: Lisa Preston, Marketing Communications Manager, lpreston@printpack.com, 404-460-7441 Description: The north star of Krakatoa Hot Chips is “heat.” As such, the brand is named after Mount Krakatoa, a volcano in the Indonesian Islands famous for one of the most violent explosions in human history. To that end, Krakatoa’s logo doubles as both the human mouth “on fire” as well as a volcano erupting. The brand has five trademarked names that represent a flavor experience that ranges from spicy to volcanic as measured by the brand’s “Krak Scale.” The “Krak Scale” is featured prominently on the back of the bag so consumers know exactly what they are getting into.   --------------------------------------------------   Numi Tea Award: Silver Award – Sustainability Manufacturer: Plastic Suppliers, Inc. (www.plasticsuppliers.com) and Elk Packaging (www.elkpackaging.com)End-User/Customer: Numi TeaKey Supplier: Plastic Suppliers, Inc. (PSI), EarthFirst® PLA sealant film supplierContact: Cecelia Glackin-Hunt, Marketing Project Manager, glackin-hunt@plasticsuppliers.com, 614-418-3829 Description: Timed with a brand refresh, Numi Tea introduced a new plant-based package for their individually wrapped tea. This new pouch incorporates renewable, bio-based plastic, including EarthFirst® PLA sealant film, instead of fossil fuel-based plastic. Every layer of the packaging is now plant-based. The tea packages passed ASTM D6868 biodegradation testing for disintegration and ecotoxicity, making the tea wraps compostable in commercial facilities. Now, Numi Tea packages naturally lower the carbon footprint of the packaging.   --------------------------------------------------   Reset360 Large Format Protein Pouch Award: Silver Award – Printing Manufacturer: Nosco, www.nosco.comEnd-User/Customer: Reset360Plant: Carrollton, TXKey Suppliers: Film suppliers: Advanced Converting Works and Nobelus®; Ink Supplier: HP Indigo ElectroInks; Closure Manufacturer: Zip-Pak®; and the Printing Press Supplier: HP Indigo 20000Contact: Steven Krueger, New Product Development Manager, skrueger@nosco.com, 847-360-4866 Description: When Reset360 came to Nosco seeking a large format digital flexible packaging pouch with metallic color, Nosco’s team of engineers and graphics experts went to work on a solution. Because metallic print cannot be attained on press today, the team first recommended a metPET material for its metallic properties. They then paired this material with the appropriate screen values to allow for the desired metallic effect to show through – matching the metallic PMS color originally requested by the customer. Premium white ink was then printed in the areas where Reset360 did not want a metallic effect, which provided the clean look desired. This pouch features 5 HP Indigo ElectroInk colors.    --------------------------------------------------   Smithfield Prime Fresh Delicatessen Award: Silver Award – Expanding the Use of Flexible Packaging Manufacturer: Berry Global, www.berryglobal.comEnd-User/Customer: Smithfield FoodsPlant: Milwaukee, WIDesigner/Design Firm: Berry GlobalContact: Caleb Triplett, Product Manager - Flexible Packaging, calebtriplett@berryglobal.com, 336-469-2471 Description: The Smithfield Prime Fresh Delicatessen package is a proprietary dual-forming web engineered to mirror packaging typical to cold cuts just sliced at the deli counter. The Prime Fresh package is the only deli-meat package of its kind. It is a surface-printed coextruded film with high-barrier properties, enabling it to replace laminated structures that are typical to processed deli-meat. Through an innovative extrusion process and careful material selection, this package offers improved shelf life and enhanced consumer experience, while eliminating the PET web typical to laminations. The Prime Fresh bag also uses 31% less material than the conventional tubs that hold competing pre-sliced deli meat, resulting in other sustainability benefits like fewer transportation miles and less product waste.       About the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA)The Flexible Packaging Association is the voice of the U.S. manufacturers of flexible packaging and their suppliers. The association’s mission is connecting, advancing, and leading the flexible packaging industry. Flexible packaging represents over $33 billion in annual sales in the U.S. and is the second largest, and one of the fastest growing segments of the packaging industry. Flexible packaging is produced from paper, plastic, film, aluminum foil, or any combination of those materials, and includes bags, pouches, labels, liners, wraps, rollstock, and other flexible products.     Origin: https://www.flexpack.org/publication/RG93bmxvYWQ6NTk5

Every liquid has a fingerprint and now it can be measured in real time

A new radio wave-based analysis technology, developed by the Finnish high-tech company Collo, makes it possible to continuously monitor the state of any liquid in industrial processes, be it thick slurries, resins, adhesives, coatings, emulsion, beer, water or any other fluid.   Collo’s technology is based on an electromagnetic resonator that emits a continuous radio frequency field into the liquid. The signal reacts to interferences caused by different components, chemicals and phases in the liquid. The analyzer immediately warns if the process is disturbed in any way so that the process can be adjusted according to the online data.   “Our sensors can be placed anywhere in the process to optimize for instance the use of raw materials and chemicals in the critical process steps”, says Matti Järveläinen, CEO and founder of Collo. “Our analyzer monitors the process constantly, compared to manual samples that provide a delayed snapshot of the process status at a given time. The advantage of real-time monitoring is that it takes away the guesswork when adjusting the process, which in turn can save a lot of chemicals, materials, energy and time.”     Brewing better beer   Collo Analyzer simultaneously measures eight proprietary parameters from a liquid, which together form the liquid’s fingerprint. If these characteristics are changed during processing, for example if unwanted solids are formed or the chemical balance is negatively impacted, the analyzer shows the changes so that corrective measures can be made immediately.   “For the first time it is now possible to analyze the changes in any desired liquid in real time, using our radio wave technology that penetrates liquids of any dry mass”, Järveläinen says. “A brewery is an example of a typical slurry process, where solids are blended into the liquid followed by several critical steps that each has to be optimized to get an even quality. Now it is possible to measure these critical steps in real time using one single technology.”   Unlike generic measurement techniques, Collo doesn’t just measure the liquids, but combines data with sophisticated analytics, providing actionable information for improved process performance. For optimal result, analytics are adjusted for each liquid application.   “Once adjusted, the same system can be replicated in similar processes”, Järveläinen says. “This is especially beneficial for customers that have a vast number of identical liquid processes, as they are able to achieve significant economies of scale with Collo. The analyzer is very low-maintenance, since the sensor is not sensitive to dirt and does not require cleaning.”     Less scrap and complaints   As Collo’s technology displays real-time measurements, it is possible to continuously adjust the process according to the results.   “The benefit of this continuous quality control is that process deviations are identified immediately when they occur and before they have caused any issues in the process or decreased its performance”, says Mikko Tielinen, Head of Sales. “If the problem is realized too late, it may escalate and become much more expensive to solve.”   For example, resin mixtures in electrical components insulation processes require a correct level of viscosity. If the critical stages can be analyzed online, the process will be steadier, resulting in less scrapped parts or faulty components shipped to customers.   “When using Collo Analyzer you can see when the liquid has the right properties and when adjustments are needed”, Tielinen says. “This means you don’t have to add more raw material than needed or use time and energy to blend the liquid longer than necessary, just because you cannot be sure of the consistence. This way the productivity gets a boost, and the use of energy and materials is decreased, while at the same time less waste is generated, and the final product is much less vulnerable to complaints because of quality issues.”       Collo Collo is an industrial liquid process performance solution, developed by ColloidTek Oy (Collo), founded in 2017 after extensive scientific research in measurement technology at Tampere University by its founders and key personnel. Collo develops and commercializes the Collo technology for various industries, helping customers better understand and develop their liquid processes. Amongst the customers are well-known industrial companies like ABB, Danone, Evonik, LKAB, Element Six, Kemira and Outotec.   Origin:http://ins-news.com/en/100/999/2755/Every-liquid-has-a-fingerprint-and-now-it-can-be-measured-in-real-time.htm

Greiner Packaging brings new cardboard spoon to market

A spoon included in packaging for convenience products is nothing particularly groundbreaking. But Greiner Packaging and its joint venture partner Cardbox Packaging are now taking this idea to the next level in keeping with the principles of a circular economy. The result is a 100 percent recyclable cardboard spoon.   Kremsmünster, Austria, January 2021. The use of disposable plastic cutlery will be banned in the European Union from mid-2021 – but a perfect alternative is being brought to market in the form of the new fold-out cardboard spoon developed by Greiner Packaging and Cardbox Packaging. Designed for enjoying dairy and snack products away from home, the spoon is right on track with both the convenience and sustainability trends: Consumers want food solutions that are easy to prepare and can also be enjoyed on the go – and they also want the food’s packaging and cutlery to be as user and eco-friendly as possible. Cutlery made of renewable resources such as cardboard, which is 100 percent recyclable in the paper recycling loop, taps into these exact trends.       Smart and sturdy cardboard design Folded just once, the sturdy cardboard spoon has a length of 10 cm, which gives it the perfect shape and size to conveniently consume dairy products, desserts, fruit, or various types of salad on the go. Thanks to its smart folding style and the innovative shape that resembles a bank card, the spoon is easy to use on the spot. The cardboard spoon is made from virgin fibers and is therefore approved for contact with food, while a water-based coating on the cardboard ensures the spoon can be safely used while eating. But customers can still have branding and a great look with this spoon, too. Custom printing is always available starting at a minimum order quantity. This process naturally uses special food-safe inks and coatings that meet the highest standard for food products.       The completely recyclable alternative  Once used, the folding cardboard spoon can be simply disposed of with other wastepaper. A water-based coating selected for the spoon makes it ideal for recycling in the standard paper recycling stream. Combining it with a top cup made of r-PET and polypropylene (PP) sealing film that can be fully removed from the lid results in a sustainable packaging solution with an excellent recycling profile: To access the spoon, the PP film is automatically separated from the lid. This ensures that the individual packaging components are 100 percent recyclable when correctly disposed of.       A key contribution toward a circular economy The new cardboard spoon meets Greiner Packaging’s requirements for sustainability perfectly. The plastics experts are committed to the concept of a circular economy that aims to use plastic as sparingly as possible. When the cardboard spoon – which is made of renewable resources itself – needs to be disposed of, it is simply recycled in the paper loop. “We are delighted that more and more partners and customers want to work on sustainable packaging solutions with us. Developing recyclable packaging solutions not only makes sense for the environment but also offers commercial advantages. We are proud to play our part in advancing a circular economy with developments such as the cardboard spoon,” says Konrad Wasserbauer, circular economy director at Greiner Packaging. The cardboard packaging experts at Cardbox Packaging are also proud of the partners’ product innovation: “We were able to pool our expertise as we worked to develop the cardboard spoon, achieving a result that meets consumers’ expectations as well as doing something positive for our environment,” Florian Scharl, managing director at Cardbox Packaging, is pleased to note.       Everything from a single source An automated process places the cutlery made of cardboard sourced from virgin fibers hygienically packaged in the lids, which are mainly made from r-PET. As such, the cutlery can be perfectly tailored to the needs of the project and the customers, although naturally, the cutlery is also available separately.     Packaging facts: Decoration: White or direct printed Material: Cardboard made from virgin fibers

Brightplus and Origin by Ocean join forces to utilise redefined seaweed in biomaterials

Brightplus is happy to announce a partnership with an innovation leader of an algae-based ecosystem – Origin by Ocean. Both companies share a common vision of easing the climate burden of our world by creating sustainable materials from biosources. The cooperation aims to explore the functionality of algae as an ingredient of biomaterials. Origin by Ocean’s vision is to build a new value chain around the eutrophication problem of oceans – by harvesting algae from the Baltic Sea and turning algae-based biomass into sustainable ingredients. These ingredients are used in production of everyday consumer goods such as food, beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Seaweed’s natural building blocks give algae a wide array of sustainable and functional properties suitable for many different applications like packaging. − In our Nauvu® biorefineries, we isolate various components from different naturally occurring seaweeds to create new sustainable raw materials. These components can, for example, increase the viscosity, adhesion and porosity of the material or give it different decorative features, explains Mikael Westerlund, Chief Business Activist from Origin by Ocean. For Brightplus, the redefined algae biomass offers a non-fossil-based side-stream for biosourced BrightBio® materials. The cooperation focuses especially on examining the different decorative and barrier properties of seaweed-based biomass, which can provide e.g. haptic effects for glass coatings. − There is a growing demand for algae-based synthetic biomaterials in Europe, and we are happy to start cooperating with an innovation leader such as Origin by Ocean. Algae is a naturally occurring side-stream that captures CO2 efficiently. With a wide array of functional properties, it is an ideal component for our synthetic chemistry BrightBio® materials, says Milja Hannu-Kuure, Managing Director from Brightplus. − We greatly appreciate this collaboration and are happy to include our algae-based components into innovative biomaterials. There is a clear room for Origin by Ocean and Brightplus to increase the role of seaweed in the future sustainable materials, continues Westerlund.   About Origin by OceanTo meet the growing global demand for seaweed-based products, Origin by Ocean, after more than 10 years of research, has started to process sea and ocean grown biomass to produce natural sustainable ingredients for food, beverage, cosmetics and pharma. Our vision is to create an algae-based business ecosystem that alleviates the nutrient burden of our oceans in a commercially viable manner. To their customers, Origin by Ocean creates value by offering bio-based and non-synthetic ingredients that improve sustainability throughout the value chain up to the end user. Products of animal origin are replaced by plant-based innovations. Our Nauvu®- Process and Ecosystem address the UN SDG14. Read more at:www.originbyocean.com   About BrightplusBrightplus is a pioneering Finnish biosourced materials company. We create reusable, recyclable and biodegradable side-stream material solutions with our visionary chemistry. Our versatile offering ranges from coating and barrier solutions to plastic replacement materials. Brightplus supports leading global manufacturers and major brands in e.g. packaging, consumer goods and agriculture to achieve their sustainability goals. Our multitalented team works closely with customers to co-create innovations that seamlessly comply with their existing processing methods and requirements. Our side-stream solutions reduce the circularity gap and meet the EU Green Deal 2030 targets. Read more at: www.brightplus.com   Further informationMilja Hannu-Kuure Managing Director, Brightplus Oy tel. +358400 64 6533 milja.hannu-kuure@brightplus.com Mikael Westerlund Origin by Ocean, Chief Business Activist +358 40 540 9880 mikael.westerlund@originbyocean.com

ProAmpac Launches Unprecedented ProActive Recyclable® Film for Premium Frozen Food Products

Filling the market gap for premium and high-performance recyclable frozen food packaging, ProAmpac announces the launch of ProActive Recyclable R-2000F. This patent-pending film is the newest member of the ProActive Sustainability® product family and has been prequalified for store drop-off recycling through polyethylene recycling streams.   Engineered to maintain machine efficiencies on high-speed form/fill/seal lines, ProActive Recyclable R-2000F is a polyethylene-based laminated structure designed for excellent performance in cold temperature conditions. Its enhanced stiffness and scuff-resistance, compared to standard surface printed films, offers outstanding display characteristics in the freezer case, boosting brand differentiation while supporting sustainable messaging.    “ProAmpac is committed to providing our customers sustainable alternatives to their current products that do not sacrifice manufacturing or end-use performance. Our material scientists have  designed a product that is unique to frozen- food packaging, that runs at-rate, and is recyclable,” said Adam Grose, chief commercial officer for ProAmpac. “The debut of R-2000F comes on the heels of ProActive Recycle Ready Retort RT-3000 film which we launched just a few weeks ago.  We are excited to introduce this unique technology that will immediately help brands advance their sustainable packaging goals,” continued Grose.   ProActive Recyclable R-2000F can be supplied with a pre-applied recyclable Inno-Lok®¹ zipper. Ideal for running on high-speed vertical or horizontal form/fill/seal equipment, R-2000F is also available in pre-made pouch format. For additional differentiation in the freezer case, gloss or Signature Surfaces Registered Matte finish options are available.   “Maintaining filling machine efficiency and superior shelf appearance was at the forefront of the design process when we developed R-2000F. The film has been proven to run ‘at-rate’ on existing equipment,” stated Hesam Tabatabaei, vice president of product development and innovation for ProAmpac. “Our ProActive Recyclable R-2000F has superior heat resistance, a robust sealant technology, and excellent dimpling resistance, which makes it an ideal replacement for gusseted frozen food packaging made of non-recyclable PET/PE or OPP/PE laminations.”   In addition to R-2000F, ProAmpac offers ProActive Recyclable R-500F, which is a surface printed mono-web structure for making gusseted bags on high-speed vertical form/fill/seal applications.   “ProAmpac understands there is no one-size-fits-all solution in flexible packaging. By offering multiple recyclable platforms to frozen food brands we hope to make it easier for our customers to increase their recyclable packaging footprint,” stated Grose.     For information on how ProAmpac can help meet your sustainable packaging goals contact Nathan Klettlinger, (330) 697-7879, Nathan.Klettlinger@ProAmpac.com, or visit ProAmpac.com/Sustainability.       About ProAmpac ProAmpac is a leading global flexible packaging company with a comprehensive product offering, providing creative packaging solutions, industry-leading customer service and award-winning innovation to a diverse global marketplace. ProAmpac’s approach to sustainability – ProActive Sustainability® – provides innovative sustainable flexible packaging products to help our customers achieve their sustainability goals. We are guided in our work by four core values that are the basis for our success: Integrity, Intensity, Innovation, and Involvement. Cincinnati-based ProAmpac is owned by Pritzker Private Capital along with management and co-investors. For more information, visit ProAmpac.com or contact Media@ProAmpac.com.     About Pritzker Private Capital Pritzker Private Capital partners with middle-market companies based in North America with leading positions in the manufactured products, services and healthcare sectors. The firm's differentiated, long-duration capital base allows for efficient decision-making, broad flexibility with transaction structure and investment horizon, and alignment with all stakeholders. Pritzker Private Capital builds businesses for the long term and is an ideal partner for entrepreneur- and family-owned companies. Pritzker Private Capital is a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). For more information, visit PPCPartners.com.   Origin: https://www.proampac.com/news/en-us/proampac-launches-unprecedented-proactive-recyclable-film-for-premium-frozen-food-products/

The new HYDRO-X GA Water Barrier Coating. More environmentally friendly production of food packaging.

hubergroup Print Solutions is launching a barrier coating that protects against water. It is particularly suitable for surface printing in the packaging industry, both in the food and nonfood sectors. By using a revised formulation of the binding agents for the water-based coating, there is no longer any need for PE film lamination as a water barrier. Paper packaging with a barrier coating can be recycled in the already well-established paper recycling system. Changing from conventional packaging to pure paper packaging with a barrier coating is a cost-effective and more environmentally friendly option. The HYDRO-X GA Water Barrier Coating is now available worldwide.     Significant process optimisation Dr Christian Schirrmacher, Global Project Manager Water Based Inks from hubergroup Print Solutions, was clearly delighted about the product launch: “We are constantly working to further develop our portfolio. In particular, we focus on the benefits for our customers and the sustainability aspect. With the HYDRO-X GA Water Barrier Coating, as a team, we have achieved another milestone.” He adds: “The aim is to enable our customers to produce more environmentally friendly packaging solutions.”   By using the HYDRO-X GA Water Barrier Coating, it is possible to change from laminate structures to mono-material paper. For this step, only one more available inking unit is needed in order to apply the coating. It has the following advantages:   Significantly improved recyclability because a well-established recycling system for purepaper packaging already exists.  The range of applications for pure paper packaging is increased to include sectors whichwere previously reliant on PE/paper packaging. Lower material costs thanks to savings on plastic films, which are now replaced by thecoating. Reduced processing times because polyethene (PE) lamination or extrusion coating is nolonger required, resulting in one less step in the process. In a full-cost analysis, the finished product results in lower costs for a sufficient technicalbarrier effect.     Optimal product protection The coating provides a highly water-repellent surface, thereby increasing the shelf life of the product. The barrier coating is particularly suitable for use in the packaging industry, specifically for packaging moisture-sensitive foodstuffs such as sugar, flour and dry animal food. This protective coating prevents unnecessary food waste. It is also suitable for applications in the non-food sector, for example, cement packaging and secondary packaging for copy paper. The HYDRO-X GA Water Barrier Coating is suitable for both coated and uncoated paper.         Successful printing results Following successful results from laboratory tests, in spring 2020 hubergroup also began testing the coating in a real-world environment together with a customer. This involved print testing on different machines. Dr Schirrmacher explains: “The results were so impressive that we immediately received an order from our customer. They were particularly impressed by the elimination of a step in the production process.”   With the launch of the HYDRO-X GA Water Barrier Coating, the printing ink manufacturer is expanding their water-based portfolio. In doing so, hubergroup continues to pursue their integrated approach to sustainability. Dr Lutz Frischmann, Global Product Director Flexible Packaging, sees that the packaging industry is undergoing major change. He recognises a clear trend towards mono-materials and therefore towards barrier coatings: “At present we are working intensively to develop and manufacture additional protective coatings, such as an oxygen barrier coating. Due to the sustainability aspect, we see big potential in these product groups.” More products are expected to be launched throughout the year.     Please find the video here: https://youtu.be/0hVmmn-q7Es       About hubergroup   hubergroup is a family business based in southern Germany with a 255-year history. Print Solutions division produces and sells printing inks and printing aids for packaging printing and commercial printing. The security inks segment for international banknote and identity document producers is covered by the subsidiary Gleitsmann Security-Inks. Chemicals Division markets raw materials such as pigments, resins and additives produced in India. The company has always been focused on customer success. That is why hubergroup works on innovative solutions, technologies and services every day in order to optimise the value creation in the printing and chemistry industry and to allow their customers to achieve first-class results. In 2020, hubergroup generated an annual turnover of about € 620 million and employs approximately 3,500 employees worldwide in over 30 countries.

GULFOOD 2021 An Unmissable Opportunity To Reinvigorate Business And Tap Global F&b Pulse

Time：2021-02-21~2021-02-25

Publishing Area：Dubai, UAE

Most competitive global sourcing platform will welcome world’s leading industry players to set food agenda for 2021 and beyond   Dubai will once again welcome the great and the good of the global Food and Beverage (F&B) industry when Gulfood returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) for its 26th edition this month. The show will provide a crucial, unmissable platform for industry players to make up for lost time, strengthen current partnerships, capitalise on new business opportunities and accelerate the future of food following one of the most challenging years ever for the sector.   Running from 21-25 February, Gulfood, the most competitive global F&B sourcing platform, is the first major in-person trade event since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic and the only place to get the year off to a good start. Local, regional, and global F&B powerhouses have acknowledged the opportunities available across 20 exhibition halls at DWTC – with participants from 85 countries bringing latest product innovations and insights to meet ever-changing consumer demands and behaviour.   Alongside new business opportunities, participants will discover innovative products and technologies designed to address massively changing trends towards organic, natural, and healthy products, contactless F&B transactions, plant-based protein, sophisticated and proven providence ingredients, as well as convenience meal kits and environmentally friendly packaging.   With so much changing over the past 12 months, Gulfood 2021 represents a watershed moment for the F&B sector where exhibitors can expect to meet with buyers eager to place orders and kickstart the new normal for F&B.   Furthermore, Gulfood 2021 will underline the show’s endearing appeal for setting the global agenda with more than 70 high-profile industry thought leaders set to address the latest sector shifts and provide precious insights at the much-anticipated Gulfood Innovation Summit. Running from 22 - 24 February, the Summit will attempt to unpack the way forward for the industry from east to west, north to south, through a series of panel discussions and presentations.   With the challenges of the past 12 months accelerating food security to the top of government and consumer agendas, Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, the UAE Minister of State for Food Security, will highlight the importance of the topic when she addresses the Summit on 22 February. The Minister will outline the UAE National Food Security Strategy that visualises the country ranking among the top 10 of the Global Food Security Index.   Product innovation at Gulfood 2021 will be matched by innovation in the kitchen as the hugely popular Tastes of the World returns – an unparalleled opportunity to engage renowned chefs and distinguished food change-makers who are revolutionising cuisines through new-age techniques and a drive for zero waste. Some of the leading lights that will be showcasing their skills include Gal Ben-Moshe, Israel’s only Michelin Star chef, Gregoire Berger, head chef at Ossiano, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai; Matthijs Stinnissen, head chef, BOCA, Dubai; and Saradhi Dakara, group executive chef, New England Brasserie Company, among others.   Coffee aficionados are in for a treat with the Brewers Cup Championship giving visitors insights into the secrets of brewing filter coffee by hand and raising awareness of manual coffee brewing.   Innovation is at the core of Gulfood and so it is fitting that the Gulfood Innovation Awards return to celebrate initiative and excellence across brands, products, and solutions. With over 500 entries already having been received, the judging panel, comprising of prestigious industry leaders will reward the winners. New industry innovators will showcase proprietary solutions at the Gulfood Startup Programme, which provides a platform to entrepreneurs to demonstrate the impact their breakthroughs are likely to have for the wider F&B industry. The Future Zone will bring together the Middle East’s most innovative products and foods of the future, allowing visitors to learn more about, network, and explore business opportunities with exhibiting enterprises, SMEs, and start-ups.   DWTC has proved its capability to curate the safest face-to-face business environment and deliver world-class events with the highest safety protocols. This is evidenced with the recent GITEX Technology Week, the only live in-person tech event in 2020. Held in December, the event welcome tens of thousands of visitors, with 96% of attendees recorded a ‘safe’ or ‘very safe’ experience.   Gulfood 2021 will be held under strict safety and hygiene protocols. Wearing of masks will be mandatory, with social distancing in place to ensure the wellbeing of all delegates. On-site registration will not be available; registration must be completed in advance via www.gulfood.com.   The show is a trade event open strictly to business and trade visitors only. Gulfood 2021 doors will open from 11 am – 7 pm. For more information visit www.gulfood.com