UPM and Orkla Suomi introduce paper packaging

UPM Specialty Papers and Orkla Suomi have launched a new paper wrapper for Panda milk chocolate. The new wrappers will replace traditionally used PP plastic wrappers during a six-month pilot period. Milk chocolate bars in new packages are available in stores across Finland.

'At Orkla Suomi, we want to improve everyday life with local brands that bring joy and make sustainable choices easier. Our products are a combination of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. A great example of our ongoing efforts to replace fossil-based materials with renewable alternatives is the new paper-based chocolate tablet packaging, developed in collaboration with UPM and printing house Walki Westpak. We will pilot this paper-based packaging with Panda Milk Chocolate in spring 2025 to gather insights and experiences from the new packaging,' said Arja Laitinen, packaging developer at Orkla Snacks.

The new type of wrapper for Panda milk chocolate is based on UPM AsendoTM Pro 75 g/m2 barrier paper, which has suitable grease barrier properties for Panda milk chocolate. A cold seal lacquer, which has been applied to sealing areas, allows the paper-based package to be sealed on Orkla Suomi’s existing flowpack packaging machines, which are commonly used to pack products in plastic. UPM Asendo Pro is certified for food safety (BfR, FDA), and the new packaging material has undergone extensive testing, including shelf-life tests.

Orkla Suomi wanted to find a paper-based packaging to support its goal of increasing the share of renewable packaging materials without compromising recyclability. UPM only sources fibres from sustainably managed forests, where forest regeneration is ensured. UPM Asendo Pro has been validated as recyclable (PTS method RH 021/97, cat II) in existing fibre recycling streams, and it is widely available to consumers in Finland and Europe. 83 percent of paper and cardboard packaging is recycled in Europe (Eurostat, 2021).

'Chocolate can be a challenging product to package in paper, due to its relatively high grease level. However, UPM has a solid product portfolio, extensive experience and the broad partner network needed to support the transition to recyclable paper-based packaging. Therefore, we can help converters and brands like Orkla Suomi with their packaging sustainability ambitions and speed up the time to market new packaging material,' explained Kirsi Lahtela, senior manager, product portfolio management, UPM Specialty Papers.

Traditionally, plastic or a paper-plastic laminate has been used in packaging to guarantee shelf life, ensure food protection and keep grease from penetrating the package material. No additional plastic layer is required thanks to the in-built barrier protection provided by UPM Asendo Pro packaging paper.