The Paper People partners with Ahlstrom to develop fibre-based frozen food packaging
US-based sustainable packaging business The Paper People has partnered with Finnish fibre-based materials manufacturer Ahlstrom to launch a new paper material to replace traditional non-renewable plastic and films used in frozen food packaging.
The Paper People leveraged its technology together with Ahlstrom’s proprietary FluoroFree barrier papers to develop the recyclability-certified, fibre-based frozen food packaging line.
The innovative packaging has been made using Paper Peoples’ patent pending Paperlock G technology, a direct food contact heat-seal material and grease barrier which prevents oil in frozen food products, such as onion rings or chips, from transferring through to the packaging exterior.
“This new package is designed to be used on existing packaging equipment including vertical form-fill-seal, stand-up pouches and SOS style systems,” Neil Bretl, President for The Paper People, said in a statement. “The package can also be used in flow wrap and bundle wrap applications. We worked diligently to ensure these materials could easily replace traditional non-renewable substrates on existing equipment.”
The packaging can be printed in up to 10 colours and is compatible with flexographic and digital printing systems. It also comes with an optional compostable zipper in either the standard or Inno-Lok style.
“Our BoundlessBarriers® technologies are helping our customers achieve the next generation of truly sustainable packaging,” added Mark Ushpol, Executive Vice President for Ahlstrom’s Food & Consumer Packaging Division. “Included in this portfolio of barrier ranges is our PFAS-free FluoroFree® technology which boasts the highest levels of grease-resistance currently available in the marketplace.
“Collaborative partnerships, such as this frozen food development with the Paper People, are what’s needed to continue to push the boundaries of creating more renewable and sustainable packaging that has a better end-of-life”.
Numerous companies are working to develop sustainable solutions for the food packaging sector. Earlier in August, Israeli start-up MadeRight raised $2 million to scale its fungi-based material which can be used to replace the harmful plastic additives in packaging. Also this month, Mondelēz International teamed up with global packaging manufacturer Amcor to build an advanced plastic recycling facility in Australia.
