UPM, Paramelt forge bio-based packaging breakthrough for greasy foods

USA – UPM Specialty Materials and Paramelt have unveiled a recyclable, home-compostable paper packaging solution that delivers exceptional grease resistance at low coating weights, offering a scalable alternative to fossil-based materials for bakery, fast food, and on-the-go applications.

The co-creation concept pairs UPM Solide Lucent or UPM Prego barrier base papers with Paramelt Aquavate Bio SB 2383, a water-based coating formulated entirely from biodegradable components.

Christiane Laine, senior researcher at UPM Innovation, explained that achieving this level of grease resistance at such low coat weights is highly challenging even with fossil-based coatings, yet the combined concept delivers exceptional performance.

Engineering a Circular Solution

The innovation’s true strength lies in its end-of-life credentials.

Each component has been independently validated as suitable for home composting, while the demonstrated packaging materials are certified recyclable according to the Cepi/4evergreen v.2 standard.

The coating itself is a water-based dispersion formulated with biodegradable ingredients, of which 90 percent is bio-based, incorporating certified home-compostable PHA.

UPM’s barrier base papers, including the Solide Lucent and Prego grades used in this solution, have achieved recyclability certifications under both European CEPI and US WMU testing methods, confirming they are technically recyclable in conventional recycling mills.

This dual certification positions the solution for markets on both sides of the Atlantic.

Seamless Integration into Existing Lines

For converters and brand owners, the solution’s compatibility with existing production infrastructure is critical.

The coating integrates efficiently with UPM’s engineered papers, enabling reliable performance on standard coating processes and existing converting lines, including vertical form fill seal systems.

Leon Krings, business development manager at Paramelt, noted that brand owners and converters are seeking scalable technologies that integrate easily into current production setups, and this solution enables a practical shift toward recyclable, home-compostable fibre-based packaging.

The low coating weights required by UPM’s engineered papers mean that existing equipment can run the new material without significant modifications, a crucial factor for accelerating commercial adoption across the packaging value chain.

Market Context and Industry Impact

The solution is positioned to serve a wide range of food products, from dry snacks to greasy fast-food items, where traditional paper packaging has struggled to match the performance of plastic.

For the packaging industry, this collaboration demonstrates that paper-based solutions can achieve functional parity with conventional materials while delivering superior end-of-life outcomes.

What’s Next

Samples of the solution will be available at interpack 2026, with UPM Specialty Materials exhibiting in Hall 8A, Stand 29, and Paramelt in Hall 7, A02B.

For converters and brand owners seeking to reduce plastic content without compromising performance, the showcase will offer a hands-on opportunity to evaluate a solution that bridges the gap between sustainability and functionality.

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