In our latest Wrap-Up … predictions for the year ahead, KM opens Australia office, countdown to the fresh produce show, KitKat has a break from plastic, rocky road to kerbside collections, updated EPR guidance, and more …
For Starters …
PREDICTIONS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD
The creation of a sustainable future for packaging and food products that help our bodies withstand varying temperature extremes are just two trends to expect in 2023, according to Packaging Europe and What’s New in Food Technology & Manufacturing.
Other packaging predictions are increased development of alternative materials, more paper-based packaging, innovations in accessibility and interactivity, and advanced recycling.
Trends that will impact food and drink demands include formulations that help consumers optimise their mental performance, minimalist messaging, and inspirations drawn from space travel!
KM OPENS AUSTRALIA OFFICE
In an important landmark in our company history, we now have an official business entity in Australia, KM Packaging Services ANZ Pty Ltd.
We’re delighted to announce that Tammy Spencer has joined us as Business Unit Manager (ANZ), based on the Gold Coast in Queensland.
COUNTDOWN TO THE FRESH PRODUCE SHOW
A complete fresh produce packing line solution will form the centrepiece of tray sealing and packaging line specialist Proseal’s stand at this year’s Fruit Logistica, held from February 8th to 10th in Berlin.
Also, Packaging Automation has announced its evolutionS high-speed tray sealer – which will be on display at the event – has been nominated for the Fruit Logistica Innovation Award 2023.
Meanwhile, we have a range of solutions for the fresh produce market, including top-sealed lidding film, with options for print, perforation, and compostable materials.
IN FLEXIBLE NEWS
- Having a break from plastic: In a global first for the brand, a paper packaging wrapper is being trialled for KitKat. A QR code on the pack will allow consumers to provide feedback.
- Reductions in paper: A new HydroTec Paper Pouch has been launched by global packaging company Sourceful. Made from FSC-certified paper, the pouch is said to reduce plastic use by 99% and carbon emissions by up to 40% compared to traditional plastic pouches.
- Reductions in films: Amcor has announced the European launch of its new PrimeSeal and DairySeal Recycle-Ready Thermoforming Films for meat and dairy. The films are said to offer up to an 80% reduction in carbon footprint compared to similar packaging.
- Reductions in trays: Mondi is working with Noel Alimentaria to repackage its sliced meat and plant-based food products in a recyclable, paper-based tray and reduce the company’s plastic consumption.
PET PROJECT PRODUCES REBRANDING
The packaging of Harringtons pet food has been rebranded to “modernise and clarify its positioning and visual identity”. The new designs by the Robot Food agency are used across the wet and dry food ranges and treats for dogs and cats.
We also cater for the pet food market with a diverse range of packaging solutions for dry and wet products.
COFFEE GROUNDS CONVERTED TO FILM
A plastic film made from used coffee grounds has been developed by AIMPLAS – Plastics Technology Centre. The development is part of a European project focused on converting biological waste into resources.
IN TRAY NEWS
- Changing hands: MCP Performance Plastic Ltd, in Israel, has been acquired by the MPP group. At the same time, MCP USA was acquired by Faerch.
- Track and trace: Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland has announced it is the first packaging manufacturer in Northern Ireland to gain the Sustainably Sourced Plastics (SSP) Certification. The certification ensures required recycled content percentage can be traced and assured, from recyclers to manufacturers and retailers.
RECYCLING NEWS
Rocky road to kerbside collections
The road to the kerbside collection of soft plastics in England has been explored by Resource magazine. And it appears there are some twists and turns to be negotiated if the Government’s 2027 target is to be achieved.
Question marks remain over how the collection of flexibles would work in the current co-mingled systems, the impact on the recycling infrastructure, and how it would be funded.
Green light from scientists: A scientific review panel has given the green light to several different technologies to recycle post-consumer PET and polyolefins into 100% recycled-content food and drink packaging.
Burden of landfill: WRAP has published its “plastic waste hierarchy” report, which shows that landfill has “consistently the worst environmental burdens” for plastics than any other disposal method. The report found that mechanical recycling “appears to be the most beneficial end-of-life treatment for all polymers”.
LAW AND ORDER
EPR guidance
The Government has updated its guidance to help organisations prepare for extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging. If you’re affected by the new EPR, you needed to start collecting the correct packaging data from January 1st.
Euro directives
In Europe, an increasing number of governments are reported to be recognising the long-term benefits of EPR. Also, several countries have transformed EU directives on single-use plastics into domestic laws, including the Spanish plastic tax now being in force.
For guidance, Europen has published a factsheet on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for used packaging.
Targeting waste
The European Commission (EC) is implementing a series of reforms to plastic and packaging legislation which will bring changes to several parts of the industry.
The “headline target” is to reduce 2018 rates of packaging waste by 15% by 2040 per member state per capita.
Resource Magazine has examined what the reforms mean for the industry and concluded that the reuse and recycling industries will, in particular, be targeted, as these are outlined as the primary modes through which the reduction targets will be reached.
NB: PPWR webinar
The BPF is running a live webinar at noon on January 25th to help you understand the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and its latest updates.
SUSTAINABILITY PRIORITIES DIFFER
Research has revealed that 93% of food producers and manufacturers admit that sustainability is no longer a priority in the current economic climate.
Hurdles preventing sustainable practices include supply chain challenges and disruption concerns, rising fuel and operational costs, and the need for high investments in supporting technologies.
However, according to other research, sustainable packaging is increasingly prioritised across industries. It showed that recyclability, reusability, and biodegradability are the most important aspects users want in packaging.
NB: Sustainability Perspectives podcast
Martina Wagner, Constantia Flexibles’ Group Sustainability Manager, discusses the sustainability potential and challenges of flexible packaging and its role when it comes to preventing food waste.
MAPPING THE GLOBAL FOOD SYSTEM
Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology have produced a digital map (requires payment) that depicts the pressure the global food system exerts on the environment and climate. Major food organisations can use the study to find the most environmentally efficient solutions.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
From the KM team … stay safe, keep up the good work, and value plastic.