Parkside expands home-compostable flexible packaging range with new cellulose films

UK – Flexible packaging specialist Parkside has expanded its compostable packaging portfolio with the launch of four new cellulose-based flexible film structures designed to deliver strong barrier performance while remaining suitable for home composting.

The newly introduced materials, HCFD6, HCFD7, and two triplex structures, HCFT1 and HCFT2, aim to address longstanding limitations associated with compostable packaging, particularly lower barrier properties and dependence on industrial composting infrastructure.

All four structures carry certification from DIN CERTCO for home compostability and are free from conventional fossil-based plastics, positioning them as an alternative to traditional multilayer flexible packaging.

“Consumers are increasingly demanding packaging that can be composted at home, not just in industrial facilities,” said Georgina Merry, New Product Development Manager at Parkside.

“Our new structures are designed to compost in a well-managed domestic environment within approximately 26 weeks, making the move to sustainability practical for consumers.”

Addressing barrier and performance challenges

Compostable flexible packaging has often faced criticism for limited oxygen and moisture barrier capabilities compared with conventional plastic laminates. Parkside says its new materials are engineered to bridge this gap.

The HCFD6 and HCFD7 films incorporate a single functional barrier layer that enhances oxygen and moisture protection for applications such as flow wraps and sachets.

These films also provide light protection, making them suitable for products including snacks and powdered foods.

Meanwhile, the HCFT1 structure uses a dual metallized triplex design, combining cellulose with two metallized layers to create a dense barrier system for nutraceuticals, specialty foods and other light-sensitive products requiring extended protection.

The HCFT2 triplex structure pairs cellulose with a metallized layer and a bio-polymer coating, targeting applications with moderate shelf-life requirements.

Supporting sustainable packaging transitions

According to Parkside, the development reflects growing pressure on packaging suppliers to provide environmentally responsible alternatives as regulations tighten and consumer expectations evolve.

“This expansion comes at a critical time, when changing legislation and sustainability targets are front of mind for many businesses,” Merry said.

The new films build on the company’s recent work in compostable packaging.

Last year, Parkside partnered with vegan nutrition brand Vegums to develop a fully compostable flexible pouch for multivitamin gummies.

The packaging incorporated film supplied by Futamura and carried certification from TÜV Austria for home compostability.

Industry experts note that the pouch can decompose within around 26 weeks in a home compost heap or approximately 12 weeks in industrial composting facilities, offering a practical end-of-life solution.

As brands increasingly seek packaging formats that balance product protection with environmental performance, developments such as Parkside’s cellulose-based films highlight how material innovation is helping close the gap between compostability and functional packaging performance.

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