NaturePlus Renewable is a three-ply laminate based on renewably sourced materials, which AFEA has produced and converted in partnership with Belgian company Beyers Coffee.
The new product launch, in association with Beyers’ premium BénéCafe brand (pictured) sees NaturePlus Renewable used in a coffee bag format containing 58 per cent carbon based on the ASTM D6866 method to test carbon-neutral CO2 emissions.
This is a standardised analytical test method for determining the bio-based (carbon) content of solid, liquid and gaseous samples using radio carbon analysis, and has been incorporated into reporting protocols used in the EU, Australia and the US.
The renewable carbon test aimed to satisfy legislation requiring federal agencies to give procurement preference to manufacturers using the greatest amount of biomass in products.
Strong barrier properties
AFEA also claims that the bag has strong barrier properties and seal integrity, which allows coffee to retain its freshness and aroma.
Consumer features include a ‘dead fold’ to extend fresh storage after opening, while consumers would favour the “natural look and warm feel” for the outer paper layer of the laminate, AFEA claimed.
The new product now forms part of the firm's NaturePlus range, which comprises renewable, compostable and recyclable products suitable for everything from fresh produce and frozen foods to snacks, confectionery and bakery.
Amcor said that initial responses to the packaging were very positive, as the film functioned like conventional packaging.
Peter Ettridge, AFEA Sustainability Manage, said he was “thrilled” with the results shown by the new product so far.
He added that responsible packaging provision meant that Amcor had to deliver innovations with the potential to reduce the environmental impact of packaging, “utilising our expertise as a global packaging leader to make a positive contribution to society”.