Südpack, BASF, Werz team up for sustainable chemically recycled meat packaging

GERMANY — Südpack and BASF Gastronomy have partnered to supply Heidelberg-based butcher Werz with thermoformed packaging made using BASF’s chemically recycled polyamide, Ultramid Ccycled.

The move marks the first use of this packaging innovation in the hospitality, restaurant, and catering (Horeca) sector.

The packaging, designed for meat and sausage products, incorporates Ultramid Ccycled, a drop-in material derived from chemically recycled feedstocks.

The polyamide is mass-balanced and seamlessly integrates into existing production lines, offering a practical alternative to virgin plastics while maintaining the high barrier protection required for fresh meat and cheese.

“By assigning recycled raw materials to the packaging, we are demonstrating that the goals of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) can be achieved through chemical recycling,” said Dr. Paul Neumann, responsible for New Business Development & Sustainability Polyamides Europe at BASF.

Ultramid Ccycled enables the production of high-barrier films that not only preserve product freshness but are also rated as recyclable within Germany’s polyethylene (PE) recycling stream.

BASF adds that after use, the packaging can be returned through the dual recycling system, including within its own canteens, creating a genuine closed-loop model.

Frank Werz, Managing Director of Werz, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, “Sustainable and recyclable packaging is a key concern for us and will only grow in importance.

“We are pleased to have BASF Gastronomy as a partner to help establish this product solution in the Horeca sector.”

Südpack, which also operates Carboliq, a mechanical recycling subsidiary, supports the growing momentum behind chemical recycling.

The German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) last year released a report recognizing chemical recycling as a more sustainable option than incineration, though still less preferred than mechanical recycling.

Südpack welcomed this shift, urging transparent efficiency criteria guide that policy and investment decisions.

BASF expects that as the PPWR evolves, future recycling quotas will likely extend to packaging used in community catering and foodservice, making innovations like Ultramid Ccycled increasingly relevant.

This collaboration signals a broader shift in the food packaging landscape, as companies respond to tightening regulations and rising demand for circular, environmentally responsible solutions in the hospitality and food retail sectors.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE