Lecta introduces Metalvac seal oxygen barrier for sustainable food packaging

SPAIN – Lecta, a leading innovator in specialty papers, has unveiled its latest contribution to eco-friendly packaging with the Metalvac Seal Oxygen Barrier, a recyclable metallized paper designed for the food industry. 

The innovative product expands the company’s Metalvac range, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic, foil, and laminate solutions, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally responsible packaging.

The Metalvac Seal Oxygen Barrier is engineered to deliver exceptional technical performance while prioritizing sustainability. 

According to Lecta, the product features a low aluminum content of just 0.08 grams per square meter, ensuring high barrier performance against light, water vapor, oxygen, aroma, and grease without compromising recyclability. 

Available in weights of 83 and 93 grams per square meter, the paper is printable on one side using offset, flexography, or rotogravure, with a heat-sealable, high-vacuum metallized backside that ensures seamless integration into standard packing lines.

“This breakthrough reinforces our commitment to the circular economy,” said a Lecta spokesperson. 

“The Metalvac Seal Oxygen Barrier meets rigorous industry standards for food safety and environmental responsibility while offering versatility for a wide range of food products, including snacks, confectionery, coffee, and pet food.”

The product’s adaptability shines in its compatibility with common packaging formats such as sachets, flowpacks, and doypacks. 

Its production adheres to stringent standards, including Good Manufacturing Practices and FSSC 22000 for food safety, alongside environmental certifications like ISO 14001 and EMAS.

This ensures the paper meets both regulatory and sustainability benchmarks, making it a reliable choice for manufacturers aiming to reduce their environmental footprint.

In a statement, Lecta’s product development lead emphasized the paper’s role in transforming the industry: 

“Our goal is to provide solutions that balance performance with sustainability. The Metalvac Seal Oxygen Barrier is a game-changer, offering manufacturers a recyclable option that doesn’t sacrifice efficiency or quality.”

In April, the company introduced Creaset HGP, a grease-resistant coated paper that earned a 95/100 recyclability rating from the Confederation of European Paper Industries. 

Additionally, a recent partnership with Volpak, announced in July 2025, has seen Lecta’s eco-friendly papers tested for machinability in real-world production environments, further validating their practical application in high-speed packaging lines.

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