Metsä Spring advances laminated fibre trays to industrial testing phase

FINLAND – Metsä Group’s innovation arm, Metsä Spring, has announced the progression of its Muoto Laminated Fibre series into industrial testing with select customers. 

This development follows the positive reception of the company’s Uncoated Fibre series launched in 2024.

The new laminated series targets challenging food packaging needs, including trays for meat, poultry and ready meals. 

In a statement, Metsä Spring highlighted its collaboration with packaging firm Amcor to integrate barrier films with moulded fibre bases.

According to Niklas von Weymarn, CEO of Metsä Spring, “Our aim with Muoto has always been to create packaging that combines functionality and sustainability with an eco-conscious design.” 

He added that the laminated version marks a shift from pilot trials to testing in demanding food sectors.

The fibre elements come from renewable Nordic wood sources, produced using technology co-developed with Valmet. 

This allows for a lightweight, multi-layered design that supports automated packaging lines.

The addition of laminated films provides improved barrier protection and sealing capabilities, suitable for modified atmosphere and vacuum skin packaging methods.

These trays are recyclable through carton streams and contain no added PFAS chemicals.

Metsä Spring noted that the solution aims to cut down on plastic usage while maintaining performance standards.

 Initial commercial pilots are slated for 2026, with plans to refine the product line based on customer input.

Von Weymarn stated, “This is just the beginning,” emphasizing that testing will offer data to expand sizes and concepts in partnership with clients.

Earlier this month, the Muoto Twin Uncoated Fibre range secured a ScanStar award from the Scandinavian Packaging Association for its innovative approach.

Recent updates show Muoto products are also in test sales and undergoing evaluations at locations like K-Kampus, building on lab results from earlier in the year.

In related news from September 2025, Metsä Board, part of the same group, showcased advancements in fossil-free energy at its Simpele mill during the Fachpack event, aiming to raise production efficiency to 98 percent non-fossil sources.

Additionally, Muoto’s Twin Uncoated Fibre has been nominated in multiple categories for the Packnorth Award 2025, including circular and bio-based packaging.

These steps come amid growing industry focus on sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics in food applications.

Metsä Spring’s ongoing work with partners like Amcor and Valmet continues to drive practical innovations in eco-friendly packaging.

The company expects feedback from industrial tests to shape future expansions, potentially introducing new formats for broader market adoption.

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