Borealis, Valio launch recycled PP Yogurt packaging to align with EU PPWR goals

EUROPE – Borealis has teamed up with Finnish dairy giant Valio to introduce a new yogurt packaging solution made with recycled polypropylene (PP), aligning with the European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The innovation debuts with Valio’s Greek-style yogurt line, Valio Kreikkalainen Jogurtti, and integrates Borealis’ advanced Borcycle C grade in the thermoforming process to support packaging circularity.

The EU’s PPWR pushes for greater use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content and improved recyclability across packaging.

In response, Valio sought a solution that not only meets these legislative requirements but also aligns with its broader ambition to achieve a carbon-neutral milk value chain by 2035.

“The PPWR sets clear targets for recycled content in plastic packaging,” says Peter Voortmans, VP of marketing, consumer products at Borealis.

“For instance, food packaging made from polyolefins must contain at least 10% PCR plastic by 2030. Chemically recycled PP offers a high-quality option for achieving these goals.”

Jos van Haastrecht, global communications lead for polyolefins and circular economy solutions at Borealis, notes that the regulation is driving urgency for brands like Valio.

“It requires design for recycling and mandates packaging be ready for a circular system. The challenge was to ensure safety and shelf appeal while replacing virgin polyolefins.”

The resulting yogurt cup consists of 30% recycled PP—using Borcycle C HC205TF—and 70% virgin PP.

The Borcycle C grade is a drop-in replacement for fossil-based PP, maintaining the mechanical strength, integrity, and aesthetic appeal consumers expect.

The recycled feedstock is sourced through Borealis’ collaboration with Neste, which upgrades difficult-to-recycle plastic waste into virgin-quality feedstock at its Porvoo refinery in Finland.

Borealis then processes this material at its nearby steam cracker to produce Borcycle C using a mass balance approach.

“By incorporating recycled PP, we reduce the need for virgin plastic, cutting the carbon footprint of packaging products,” Voortmans explains.

Borcycle C is particularly suited for thermoforming—a process that involves heating plastic sheets and shaping them in molds.

This method not only reduces material waste by allowing thinner designs but also enhances food protection through customizable barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and light.

“Thermoformed packaging also allows for creative shapes and sizes, boosting both functionality and on-shelf appeal,” Voortmans adds.

“This partnership is a step forward in creating scalable, circular packaging solutions for the food industry.”

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE