Biopackaging breaking new ground, claims Innovia Films

Collaboration with other biopolymer producers on material development has resulted in bioplastics that can compare to conventional packaging materials in terms of barrier properties and functionality, said Innovia Films.

Speaking to FoodProductionDaily.com at Interpack 2011, Andy Sweetman, business development and sustainability manger at the company, said that through partnership with other material suppliers, it mimics the laminate construction process of traditional polyester and polypropylene based systems.

This results, said Sweetman, in bio-packaging that can provide the same barrier properties, printability, heat resistance as oil based plastics. Furthermore the seal integrity of these packs has been assured, he continued.

The producer of the cellulose based biopolymer, NatureFlex, launched new grades at the show. Applications for the latest NKME formats are as diverse as the replacement of aluminium film for coffee packaging or metallised white wrap for cereal bars, added Sweetman.