mondi-02.08

Mondi and converter Fiorini International have collaborated on a paper bag for Antico Pastificio Umbro’s pasta products that is reportedly recyclable in existing paper streams, including its transparent cellulose window.

Mondi and Fiorini International say that the paper bag features a large viewing window made of transparent, recyclable and biodegradable cellulose that allows the end user to see the contents. The paper bag is reportedly fully recyclable in existing paper waste streams.

In addition, the companies claim that the paper bag offers the same protective properties as the previous plastic packaging, with the pasta being kept safe during transport and having the same shelf life. The paper bag features a new closure system that is sealed with a special food contact hot-melt glue with a reinforced patch on the bottom, which the companies say improves hygiene and ensures easy opening.

Massimiliano Scottà, head of sales region South & America kraft paper at Mondi, explains: “We used our customer-centric EcoSolutions approach to develop this recyclable packaging and worked very closely with Fiorini International and Antico Pastificio Umbro.

“This is a great example of best practice in creating packaging that keeps materials in circulation and contributes to Mondi’s MAP2030 sustainability target to make 100% of its products reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025.

“In addition, we are delighted to have been part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and London Design Museum’s Upstream Innovation installation, which is about rethinking packaging and developing solutions that are sustainable by design. This means focusing on the purpose while optimising the material and even changing it completely if necessary, as with this new paper bag for pasta.”

Pietro Fiorini, sales director packaging division at Fiorini International, adds: “We designed, together with Mondi, the best performing paper solution for the pasta bag.

“We are proud to be part of a sustainable mission and we know that this requires a systematic and cooperative approach among stakeholders in the supply chains, from producer to consumer. This includes involving consumers in initiatives to raise awareness of sustainable consumption and lifestyles, providing them with appropriate information about packaging.

“The partnership with Pastificio Umbro is a successful pilot project where Fiorini International’s experience, research, innovation and technology have defined a sustainable production model perfectly integrated within a brand strategy and a common mission.”

Leonardo Faccendini, CEO of Antico Pastificio Umbro, concludes: “Reducing the environmental impact of our products – their manufacture, packaging and transport – is a top priority for us as a company, and replacing traditional plastic packaging with paper is a major step towards achieving this goal. We are investing in new systems and a plant and are planning to roll out this plastic-free packaging across our entire pasta range.”

Mondi and Fiorini International have previously collaborated on a fully recyclable, paper stand-up bag with a window for pasta producer Girolomoni and a paper rice bag for Riseria Vignola Giovanni that is reportedly 100% recyclable in waste paper streams, even in countries with the highest recycling requirements.

Last month, Barilla announced that the plastic window on its Blue Box packaging, through which the pasta product was previously visible, will be replaced by product imagery to allow the virgin fibre-based box to be fully recyclable.