UPM and Henkel reveal packaging concept

UPM Specialty Papers is partnering with Henkel to develop sustainable packaging solutions.

The two companies have co-created a recyclable, heat-sealable packaging material that is compatible with existing packaging lines. By pushing the performance of barrier papers to an unsurpassed level of grease resistance, the product offers a tried and tested concept for converters.

Traditionally, plastic coatings have been required for protection and heat-sealing, which makes the final product difficult to recycle. UPM Specialty Papers and Henkel have now reinvented the concept to help brand owners and converters meet growing consumer and regulatory demands for easy-to-recycle packaging.

The product, which is food-safe and heat-sealed, is made from paper-based packaging that can be recycled in existing fiber recycling streams. Henkel’s expertise in optimizing its coatings specifically for UPM papers was essential in reinforcing the original barrier properties to offer significant levels of grease resistance.

The resulting high performance packaging concept is ideal for a wide range of dry foods that require grease resistance, such as party snacks and bread sticks, and will be available as samples at Interpack.

UPM Specialty Papers provides a tested and approved ‘off-the shelf’ combination of paper and coatings, enabling packaging converters to quickly find the right solutions for their end-use without trial and error.