The packaging industry is facing major changes due to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) legislation. Producers of frozen food (IQF products) have to adapt to stricter rules around recyclability and the use of recycled content. But what exactly does this mean for multilayer packaging, and how can packaging consisting of only one type of material still offer sufficient protection? In this article, we answer the key questions.
Why is multilayer packaging being banned?
Multilayer packaging, such as laminate packaging with polyamide (PA), do not comply with the new PPWR legislation because they non-recyclable are. These packages consist of multiple materials which are difficult to separate from each other, preventing their effective recycling and often ending up as residual waste.
The main requirements of PPWR for packaging:
- Recyclability: Packaging should be reusable or recyclable in existing recycling systems.
- Minimisation of material use: Superfluous packaging layers and heavy materials should be reduced.
- Mandatory use of recycled content (where possible): For non-food packaging mandates the use of a certain percentage of recycled plastic, but For direct food contact products, such as FFS film for IQF products, this does not apply.
This means that multilayer laminates with PA are no longer a sustainable choice and are increasingly being replaced by mono-PE packagingwhich are recyclable and comply with PPWR guidelines.
Why does recycled content not apply to FFS film for IQF products?
An important part of the PPWR regulations is the mandatory deployment of recycled content for certain packaging. However, this applies not for food packaging with direct food contact, such as FFS film for IQF products. The reason is that recycled plastic does not currently meet the strict food safety requirements that apply to primary packaging.
What does this mean concretely?
- For non-food packaging (such as cleaning products) do require the use of recycled plastic.
- For direct food contact packaging (such as IQF packaging) may no recycled plastic be used.
The focus for food packaging is thus on recyclability rather than using recycled material. This means companies should switch to monomaterials such as mono-PEwhich can be properly recycled after use.
How can mono-PE packaging still offer optimal protection and appearance?
Many frozen food producers hold on to multilayer laminates, as these are traditionally known for their barrier properties, stiffness and shine. Yet a barrier layer at IQF products often unnecessary, as they are frozen immediately after processing and stored under constant low temperatures. This makes additional protection from oxygen and moisture in many cases is not necessary.
Yet at KIVO we understand that packaging should not only be functional, but also a high processability and premium appearance need to preserve. That is why we have a high-quality mono-PE FFS film developed that combines the advantages of laminates with the benefits of recyclability.
- Recyclability: Our mono-PE film consists of one type of material (PE), so it can be fully recycled within existing recycling streams.
- EVOH as an optional barrier: For IQF products that need a barrier anyway, a thin EVOH layer be added. This film still remains recyclable within the PPWR guidelines.
- Optimal runability on VFFS machines: Our film has been specially developed for efficient processing on GEA and other automatic packaging machines. This prevents downtime and increases output.
- Premium appearance and sturdiness: Our mono-PE barrier film retains the stiffness and gloss of traditional laminates, without compromising too much on branding and shelf presentation.
Practice proves that this switch can be successful. Bonduelle chose KIVOs mono-PE FFS film as a sustainable replacement for their traditional laminate packaging. In doing so, they not only managed to meet the PPWR legislationbut also maintain their brand identity and product quality - without negatively impacting sales.
KIVO offers the solution for sustainable IQF packaging
The PPWR legislation makes no need for non-recyclable laminates Forcing companies to opt for recyclable alternatives. KIVO leads the way here with innovative FFS films made of mono-PE that comply with the new guidelines and are ready for the future.
- Fully recyclable mono-PE FFS film
- Optional EVOH barrier with no impact on durability
- Suitable for VFFS machines and seamless processing
- PPWR-proof and future-proof
Wondering how your company can switch to a PPWR-compliant packaging without concessions? Contact us and discover the possibilities!
info@kivo.nl
0299 398800
