UK – Parkside, a flexible packaging specialist, has introduced PopflexTM lidding film, a groundbreaking recyclable solution tailored for fresh produce packers and growers.
This innovative film, when paired with a matching PET tray and weld-sealed, remains attached throughout the recycling process, mitigating the risk of PET contamination in PP and PE recycling streams.
OPRL-certified for kerbside collection schemes, PopflexTM simplifies recycling for end users, who can effortlessly dispose of the entire pack in their recycling bin after use.
The film features a patented ParkScribe™ technology, laser-scored to create an integrated opening flap, ensuring a user-friendly experience for consumers.
Moreover, PopflexTM offers breathability with optional macro perforation, extending the shelf life of produce, while being crafted from recyclable PET with a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled content.
Its mono PET construction, unlike Parkside’s duplex lidding, reduces plastic usage and enhances cost-effectiveness without compromising recyclability.
Steven Hallford, Parkside’s Product Development Technologist, expressed enthusiasm for the launch, citing the increasing demand for easily recyclable packaging among retailers and consumer confusion regarding recyclability. PopflexTM addresses these concerns, offering both recyclability and consumer-friendly features.
Last September, the company in collaboration with food and drink brand SMUG has unveiled what is said to be a 100% compostable crisp packet, reported to biodegrade in domestic compost heaps in less than 26 weeks.
According to Parkside, the brand uses Park2Nature, which can be disposed of in regular domestic compost heaps. Parkside added that the material “will break down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass in under six and a half months”.
The companies explain that it is also compatible with industrial composting and can decompose within twelve weeks.
SMUG is launching its hand-fried potato crisps in the UK with a debut flavour of Cacio e Pepe, with two further flavours planned for 2024. The brand is a new venture from Shoreditch-based food and drink marketing agency Merry Galelli.
Mark Shaw, sales account manager at Parkside, at the time, said: “Cutting-edge brands need cutting-edge sustainable packaging to match. We’re delighted to work with Merry Galelli on the launch of its innovative SMUG brand crisps.
“Sustainability is playing an increasing role in the purchasing decisions of today’s consumers, and so home compostable packaging is ideal for fresh new brands looking to disrupt a highly competitive category.”
The pack sees Parkside’s innovative plant-based laminate applied in a duplex format, offering an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) below 1.0.
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