The manufacturer said that the extension of its cellulose-based packaging range, NatureFlex NK, includes a metallised version, NKM, a coloured film NKC and a solid white film NK White, with inherent deadfold and anti-static properties, high gloss and resistance to grease and oil.
Compostable packaging materials typically have been used with fresh and chilled food products where their permeability proved an advantage but the coating on the NK range allows them to be used to package dried foods, explained Alasdair McEwen, Innovia Films’ market manager - biscuits & bakery.
And he told BakeryandSnacks.com that the metallic and laminate structures in combination with the supplier’s coating technology do not interfere with the industrial or domestic compostability of the packaging.
The manufacturer said its NatureFlex films are certified to meet the European EN 13432 and American ASTM D6400 composting norms, and have also been confirmed as suitable for emerging 'waste to energy' techniques such as anaerobic digestion.
McEwen said the new NK range, in line with all biopolymers, is more costly than conventional materials, but but that they are highly applicable for the more premium, organic or Fairtrade end of the market.
And he points out that the film will allow manufacturers to combine sustainable packaging with ethical products to respond to the increasing consumer commitment to doing the right thing.
The flexible NK range has similar properties to that of co-extruded Oriented Polypropylene (OPP) film, is heat sealable on both sides and has a print receptive surface, said the supplier.
The film, which has been used successfully in a trial phase by Nestle for its Quality Street confectionery range, can be used for a variety of pack formats – VFFS, flow wrap, twistwrap and overwrap, added McEwen.