Speaking to FoodProductionDaily.com, new chief executive Pim Vervaat outlined what stage the packaging group was at in terms of bioplastics.
"We have two people developing bioplastics, but it's still a very small part of total polymer usage," he told this site. Cost and availability of raw materials remained core issues, he said. "I think bioplastics still has a long way to go. It's probably going to take some time for it to tick all the boxes.
"Biopolymers will be more expensive for some applications. We are working on all kinds of applications depending on customers' requests."
New concepts
David Rourke, sales manager for RPC Cobelplast, said RPC was constantly developing new concepts and products in tandem with customers.
One such design was the 380ml Apollo container from RPC Containers Corby, which combined extended ambient shelf life with the established lightweight, easy handling and safety benefits of plastics, plus a reclosing feature.
The high barrier Apollo featured a polypropylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol polymer/polypropylene multilayer structure protecting its contents from oxidative damage.
Hot fill, retort and pasteurising applications
The packaging is suitable for hot fill, retort and pasteurising applications and offered an attractive, fluted design in the same diameter as a can, with sleeving and labelling options to help it stand out on shelf.
The neck of the Apollo container is specifically designed for partner business Aptar's Bap Trilogy closure, which is designed to ensure excellent pack integrity and product freshness.
The foil seal features a plastic ring pull for easy opening and there is an overcap for reclosing, in a bid to reduce food waste.
"The Apollo takes long shelf life and convenience to a whole new level," said Rourke. "It's the modern alternative to the tin can." He said it offered a route for firms seeking to reduce packaging weight and switch from cans to a plastic alternative.