UPM Specialty Papers aims to align with the phasing-out of PFAS chemicals and plastic packaging with paper-based alternatives for pet food, including a barrier paper that offers recyclability, grease resistance, and ‘excellent’ print properties.
PFAS are sometimes referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ and are often used to achieve resistance to grease – an important factor in pet food packaging. Even so, health risks have led legislation like the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation to propose a ban on allowing packaging manufacturers to bring products that contain PFAS to the market.
“As PFAS chemicals are expected to be banned in the EU, UPM Specialty Papers can support converters and brand owners in this change,” says Kalle Luomi, senior manager, Product Stewardship, UPM Specialty Papers. “UPM’s barrier papers can achieve excellent grease resistance without the use of PFAS chemicals.”
The UPM Asendo Pro barrier paper is proposed as an alternative; it is said to be recyclable and provide both printability and resistance to grease. However, the company emphasizes that it can meet various customer requirements with a range of papers for pet food packaging applications.
It also expresses its willingness to work with packaging industry players to tailor packaging solutions to individual needs, including food safety, recyclability, and the necessary strength to withstand transit and carry the product inside.
“Great packaging protects what is being sold, but it also sells the product it protects,” adds Marco Tramontano, sales director, UPM Specialty Papers. “People love their pets: they want to know that their best friend gets the same quality that they do. That’s why we are pleased to offer pet food brands food-safe packaging that also ensures the shelf appeal of their products – and reduces plastic.”
As part of its PRO-EVO Recyclable platforms, ProAmpac revealed a multi-wall, paper-based, self-opening sack bag for dry pet food earlier this year. It is designed for kerbside recycling.
More recently, Mondi and Fressnapf joined forces to develop recyclable mono-material packaging for the latter’s dry pet food range; they are printed using process colour technology, reducing reliance on inks and chemicals.
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Also, if you’re interested in packaging sustainability, you will want to attend our Sustainable Packaging Summit in Amsterdam on 14-15 November. The Summit brings together leaders and pioneers from across the industry to align strategically, learn, network, and create a critical mass to accelerate change. You can learn more by clicking here, and you can buy a ticket to attend here.
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