ProAmpac takes the lead in sustainable packaging with new innovation

USA – ProAmpac, a flexible packaging and material science company, has introduced its ProActive PCR retort pouches, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional retort options.

These pouches are engineered to diminish the use of virgin plastics and contain up to 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) material by mass.

Part of ProAmpac’s ProActive Sustainability platform, these solutions are tailored to aid brands and retailers in fulfilling their circular economy objectives.

Tailored for products like shelf-stable ready-to-eat proteins that require ultra-high barrier and high-heat resistance, ProActive PCR Retort pouches maintain functionality and durability through the company’s proprietary techniques.

These techniques ensure food safety during the retort and distribution processes while presenting striking graphics for enhanced shelf presence.

Charles Golub, ProAmpac’s food and beverage market manager, highlighted their commitment to sustainability, stating, “ProActive PCR Retort pouches use less virgin resin than conventional pouches. By reducing the environmental impact of our packaging, we empower customers to make sustainable choices aligned with their goals.”

According to Bob Flaherty, Senior Director of Product Development for ProAmpac North America, these retort pouches not only offer superior filling line efficiencies but also deliver mechanical performance and extended food shelf life.

Flaherty emphasized their excellent barrier protection, tear performance, and resistance to flex cracking, ensuring optimal product protection.

In September, ProAmpac introduced its patent-pending ProActive Recyclable Paper 1000 High Barrier packaging solution, an extension to the existing ProActive Recyclable RP-1000 series.

Tailored for flavored oatmeal, dry food products, dehydrated fruit, and confectionery, this new paper packaging boasts high barriers against moisture and oxygen, along with grease-resistance properties.

Nathan Klettlinger, ProAmpac’s global marketing director, highlighted the recyclability and integration ease of RP-1000HB into existing equipment, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness compared to other sustainable alternatives.

Klettlinger noted that RP-1000HB aligns with brands’ sustainability goals, offering a seamless way to achieve their objectives.

In a related development, Superfresh Growers® has recently introduced an industry-first fruit bag in the apple and pear sector, crafted entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic.

Notably, this bag holds SGS Global Services® certification and has FDA food-contact approval, with the recycled materials sourced within the United States.

Remarkably, the cost of these bags aligns with those made from 100% virgin plastic—a victory benefiting consumers, the environment, growers, and retailers alike.

This innovative step forms part of Superfresh Growers’ broader commitment to reducing their ecological impact and preserving resources.

Tyler Weinbender, Director of Sustainability and Packaging, sheds light on the inception of the PCR Bag: “We conceived the idea of the PCR Bag a couple of years ago, aiming for a solution that could breathe new life into recycled plastic resin.”

Weinbender emphasizes the significance of incorporating PCR in products, highlighting its potential to catalyze a market for recycled material, thereby bolstering demand and enhancing recycling rates.

This strategic move by Superfresh Growers reflects their ongoing dedication to sustainability and innovative packaging solutions.

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