UPM partners with Orkla Suomi for paper-based packaging solutions

FINLAND – UPM Specialty Papers has partnered with Orkla Suomi to launch a new paper-based wrapper for Panda Milk Chocolate, replacing traditional polypropylene (PP) plastic wrappers.

This six-month pilot project will make the newly packaged chocolate bars available in stores across Finland. 

The initiative reflects Orkla Suomi’s commitment to sustainability, aiming to make eco-friendly choices easier for consumers.

Arja Laitinen, Packaging Developer at Orkla Snacks, emphasized the company’s dedication to combining tradition, innovation, and sustainability, stating, “A great example of our ongoing efforts to replace fossil-based materials with renewable alternatives is the new paper-based chocolate tablet packaging, developed in collaboration with UPM and printing house Walki Westpak.

“We will pilot this solution in spring 2025 to gather insights and experiences from the new packaging.”

The new wrapper is made from UPM Asendo Pro 75 g/m² barrier paper, which provides the necessary grease resistance for chocolate packaging.

A cold-seal lacquer applied to the sealing areas enables the paper wrapper to be processed on Orkla Suomi’s existing flowpack machines, which were originally designed for plastic packaging.

Orkla Suomi’s goal is to increase the share of renewable packaging materials while maintaining recyclability and food protection standards.

The UPM Asendo Pro paper is sourced from sustainably managed forests where regeneration is ensured. The material is also certified for food safety (BfR, FDA) and has been extensively tested, including shelf-life evaluations.

The paper’s recyclability has been validated using the PTS method RH 021/97, Category II, allowing it to be processed within existing fiber recycling streams.

This aligns with European recycling trends, where 83% of paper and cardboard packaging was recycled in 2021 (Eurostat).

Kirsi Lahtela, Senior Manager of Product Portfolio Management at UPM Specialty Papers, highlighted the challenges of packaging chocolate in paper due to its high grease content.

However, she emphasized UPM’s expertise and extensive partner network, which enables the company to support brands like Orkla Suomi in their sustainability efforts and accelerate the market adoption of recyclable packaging.

“Traditionally, plastic or paper-plastic laminates were required to protect food and prevent grease penetration. With UPM Asendo Pro, no additional plastic layer is needed, as the built-in barrier protection provides a sustainable alternative without compromising performance,” Lahtela explained.

This collaboration between UPM and Orkla Suomi represents a significant step towards reducing plastic use in food packaging, offering consumers a more sustainable choice without compromising quality or functionality.

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