Amcor, Metsä Group collaborate on eco-friendly molded fiber packaging for food applications

SWITZERLAND – Global packaging leader Amcor has partnered with forestry industry giant Metsä Group to co-develop sustainable three-dimensional molded fiber packaging for food applications.

The innovation combines Amcor’s advanced high-barrier film liner and lidding solutions with Muoto, a wood-based molded fiber product developed by Metsä Spring, the innovation arm of Metsä Group.

The partnership aims to deliver fiber-based packaging that offers both strong environmental credentials and functional performance — particularly in preserving perishable food items and extending shelf life.

Made from renewable wood pulp, Muoto is both recyclable and biodegradable. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, from takeaway containers to industrial food packaging.

By integrating Amcor’s high-barrier film, the molded fiber packaging gains enhanced sealability and protective qualities, making it viable for more demanding food uses.

The complete packaging solution is designed to be recyclable through paper recycling streams in most European countries, achieving a CEPI recyclability score of over 80%.

Looking ahead, the partners aim to develop a compostable version of the solution. The first commercial products are expected to launch in Europe later this year.

Expanding sustainable solutions with Liquiflex AmPrima

In a parallel effort to reduce environmental impact, Amcor recently launched its Liquiflex AmPrima mono-material pouches in Europe.

Targeting the bulk foodservice sector, the flexible packaging is designed for products such as sauces, dressings, frozen vegetables, and proteins.

Compared to traditional packaging formats like metal cans, the Liquiflex AmPrima pouches deliver significant sustainability benefits.

According to Amcor’s ASSET life cycle assessment methodology, which is certified by The Carbon Trust, these mono-material pouches can reduce carbon emissions by up to 79%.

This dramatic reduction contributes to lowering the overall environmental footprint of foodservice packaging.

In addition to cutting emissions, the pouches also significantly reduce water consumption—by as much as 84%—making them especially appealing in regions where water conservation is a priority.

Furthermore, the packaging requires up to 75% less non-renewable energy to produce, adding another layer of environmental efficiency.

These advantages position Liquiflex AmPrima as a forward-thinking solution for sustainable bulk foodservice packaging.

These savings are supported by Amcor’s ASSET life cycle assessment methodology, which is certified by The Carbon Trust.

The flexible pouches are also designed for logistical efficiency, occupying significantly less storage space before filling and enabling tighter packing after filling—reducing transport-related emissions.

Additionally, their lightweight structure and compatibility with existing polyethylene (PE) recycling streams make them a practical choice under the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The packaging supports the integration of food-contact post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, helping brands meet circularity goals without compromising food safety.

It can also be equipped with pump or spout dispensers, making the pouches ideal as refill solutions for commercial kitchens and foodservice operators.

The design advantages could also help manufacturers reduce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees and plastic taxes in key European markets such as France, Germany, and Spain—calculations supported by the Recyda platform.

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