Sappi has unveiled two new flexible packaging papers made from renewable raw materials to unlock recyclable alternatives to fossil-based packaging and offer further customization to its customers.
The Seal Light Gloss functional paper features coating on its reverse side, ensuring heat sealability. Its glossy surface is intended for high-quality printing results, and the material is also thought to provide a natural look and pleasant feel to packaging designs.
In the absence of barrier properties, it can apparently be recycled easily via the paper waste stream. This design aims to cut down on the use of plastics in secondary packaging for such products as confectionary, or in primary packaging for products that do not require a barrier.
It is available in grammages of 54g/m2 and 74g/m2.
Meanwhile, the Guard MH paper is available in Natural, Silk, and Gloss variants, all of which are compatible with the paper waste stream. According to test results KIT 12, both the Natural and Gloss variants offer integrated resistance against water vapour, mineral oils, and grease.
Each variant is applicable to both food and non-food products, with the different surfaces on the top side ranging from natural matt to high-end glossy – enabling flexibility and customization between customers in line with their brand image.
The Natural variant is available in grammages of 60 g/m² 70 g/m² and 90 g/m², while the Silk and Gloss variants are available in grammages of 75 g/m² 85 g/m² and 100 g/m².
Both the Seal Light Gloss and Guard MH papers are produced at Sappi’s state-of-the-art barrier coating line in the Alfeld mill in Germany. A new barrier coating machine commissioned by the company in spring 2023 is used to manufacture the papers.
“The topic of sustainability is a hugely important priority for us as a paper manufacturer,” says René Köhler, director of Paper & Packaging Solutions at Sappi Europe. “With our two new functional papers, we are supporting our customers in their efforts to use paper-based, recyclable alternatives to non-recyclable packaging.
“In addition to Seal Light Gloss and Guard MH, other papers for special applications are currently being developed that will benefit both consumers and branded goods manufacturers. We will be introducing these to the market soon.”
In a previous development, Sappi and Xeikon joined forces to print a new toner formulation directly onto flexible, paper-based packaging materials. The solution sought to preserve the recyclability of a pack and optimize the speed and flexibility of the printing process.
Another range from LC Paper constitutes machine-glazed kraft paper – reportedly manufactured in a CO2-neutral process – for use in the food and retail industries.
Meanwhile, UPM Specialty Papers has received home and industrial compostability certification for six of its packaging papers in line with French legislation.
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