Henkel develops cold seal solution for recyclable barrier-coated paper packaging

GERMANY – Henkel has launched Loctite Liofol CS 7106 RE, a cold seal adhesive specifically developed for barrier-coated paper packaging, marking a further step in the shift away from plastic-based flexible materials.

The introduction comes as regulatory and consumer pressures intensify across global packaging markets.

The European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is among the key policy drivers accelerating the move toward recyclable and fibre-based solutions.

At the same time, data from GlobalData indicate that more than 70% of consumers worldwide consider recyclable packaging either essential or desirable, reinforcing brand owners’ urgency to redesign packs for circularity.

Loctite Liofol CS 7106 RE is Henkel’s first cold seal coating engineered for use on barrier-coated paper.

Unlike conventional heat-seal systems, the cold seal technology enables manufacturers to seal packaging without thermal exposure, reducing energy use and supporting temperature-sensitive applications such as snacks, ice cream and confectionery.

The solution is suitable for primary snack and confectionery packaging, as well as for collection cards and selected secondary packaging formats that have traditionally relied on plastic substrates.

According to Henkel, the sealant delivers consistent adhesion across different paper weights and performs reliably on high-speed production lines, even under typical process variations.

Its compatibility with mechanical paper recycling has been validated by an independent certification institute, aligning with recyclability criteria under emerging European frameworks.

The product joins Henkel’s RE portfolio – a range of adhesives and coatings formulated to be compatible with existing recycling streams.

Cagri Turkmen, market strategy manager for flexible packaging at Henkel, said the innovation provides “attested Cold Seal performance on barrier-coated paper,” enabling packaging solutions that meet circular economy requirements while maintaining product safety and process stability.

The launch follows a series of strategic moves by Henkel to expand its footprint in sustainable and technology-driven segments.

Earlier this month, the company agreed to acquire Stahl Group for €2.1bn (US$2.48bn) from Wendel, strengthening its exposure to high-growth end markets and specialty coatings.

In parallel, Henkel partnered with Swedish chemical company Sekab to accelerate the transition from fossil-based to bio-based raw materials in adhesive production.

The collaboration focuses on replacing conventional ethyl acetate with a bio-based alternative compatible with existing formulations, supporting Henkel’s ambition to increase renewable raw material content without compromising performance.

Together, the initiatives underscore Henkel’s strategy to align innovation, regulatory compliance and circular design in the evolving flexible packaging landscape.

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