ACG launches recyclable PP blister for pharmaceutical packaging

INDIA – ACG has launched RecycloPod PP Ultra, a high-barrier pharmaceutical blister using a PP/EVOH/PP forming structure that targets moisture and oxygen protection while supporting design for recyclability.

ACG developed RecycloPod PP Ultra alongside its customers using a polypropylene, ethylene vinyl alcohol and polypropylene forming structure. 

The company said this results in a water vapour transmission rate of less than 0.60 grams per square metre per day and an oxygen transmission rate of less than 0.20 cubic centimetres per square metre per day. 

When the structure is used with a PP lidding film, it creates a predominantly PP blister, which ACG said supports reliable thermoforming and sealing on pharmaceutical packaging lines.

Oxygen Protection Addresses Conventional PP Blister Gap

ACG highlighted that while conventional PP blister solutions can meet moisture barrier requirements, oxygen protection can remain a challenge. 

According to the developer, RecycloPod PP Ultra addresses this with oxygen protection alongside the recyclability challenge generally associated with pharmaceutical blisters. 

The company said the product provides a more complete barrier solution for sensitive pharmaceutical formulations, where oxidation degrades active ingredients and shortens shelf life.

Leadership Frames Barrier and Sustainability as Compatible Goals

Akbar Ali, head of development and technology at ACG Packaging Materials, said pharmaceutical companies should not have to choose between protecting their product and progressing their packaging sustainability objectives. 

He added that with RecycloPod PP Ultra, the objective was to provide both high moisture and oxygen barrier protection while meeting the practical requirements of pharmaceutical manufacturing and supporting design for recyclability. 

SR Shivshankar, chief executive of ACG Packaging Materials, said the blister formed part of the company’s wider sustainability strategy, noting participation in the Science Based Targets initiative and the use of digitalisation to support more efficient manufacturing.

Launch Responds to PPWR Pressure on Pharmaceutical Sector

ACG launched the blister at the CPHI 2026 trade show in Milan, Italy, from 6 to 8 October, as part of its Pod family of packaging solutions for the pharmaceutical sector. 

The company said the range was designed with evolving packaging, sustainability and regulatory requirements in mind, with RecycloPod PP Ultra responding to the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and increased focus on recyclability. 

Although certain pharmaceutical packaging remains exempt from PPWR recyclability requirements, the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, ACG and Plastic Ingenuity have urged industry stakeholders to start preparing. 

ACG is among manufacturers already redesigning materials, structures and formats in response.

Bayer recently adopted a monomaterial PP blister for its Talcid antacid medicine.

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