UPM and Eastman launch recyclable paper-based food packaging with compostable bio-based coating
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UPM Specialty Papers and Eastman have developed packaging for food applications that require a barrier to grease and oxygen with a compostable biopolymer coating.
The solution combines Eastman's bio-based and compostable Solus performance additives with BioPBS polymers to form a thin coating on UPM's compostable and recyclable barrier base paper.
Because the coating is so thin, the companies say the solution is designed to be "recyclable" in existing fiber recycling streams.
"We are pleased to present the results of our collaborative development with Eastman," said Esa Saukkonen, Packaging Portfolio Development Manager, R&D, UPM Specialty Papers. "Together with our partners, we are continuously pushing the performance envelope for fiber-based packaging. For example, this new biopolymer coating solution offers a new option for hard-to-package foods, from confectionery end applications to mince pies in the frozen food aisle."
The solution expands the barrier enhancement benefits of UPM Solide Lucent and UPM Prego barrier base papers. UPM Specialty Papers says it provides "exceptional" heat sealability while maintaining barrier protection when folded, making it suitable for flexible packaging.
In addition, the technology is reportedly compatible with conventional LDPE (low-density polyethylene) extrusion coating equipment.
Traditionally, the challenge in combining extrusion coatings with paper has been the adhesion of the coating to the paper, especially for bio-based or biodegradable extrusion coatings. UPM Specialty Papers and Eastman believe this new solution helps address that problem.
"Through our collaboration with UPM Specialty Papers, we have developed versatile fiber-based packaging solutions that are compostable and integrate smoothly with extrusion coating equipment," said Bhuma Rajagopalan, CASE Innovation Market Manager at Eastman. "Eastman Solus additives reduce coating thickness, thereby reducing the use of plastics and making food packaging recyclable. These additives play a key role in driving scalable, sustainable paper packaging for brands."
The packaging solution has been validated for recyclability according to the PTS method (PTS-RH 021/97 cat II), and the individual components of the solution have been validated for home and industrial compostability.
