Kuraray signed a contract with Australia-based Plantic Technologies to become its distributor in the Japanese and South Korean markets and will begin promoting the biobased barrier material Plantic film in Japan.
Renewably sourced starch
Brendan Morris, CEO, Plantic Technologies, told FoodProductionDaily.com the two companies have known each other for a number of years and Kuraray is well known for its traditional barrier materials.
“Japan and South Korea are sophisticated markets for packaging and a market with potential for our materials, and one that Plantic is not currently resourced to support,” he said.
“Kuraray is ideally placed to represent Plantic in their home market.”
Plantic film is a barrier material primarily composed of a renewably sourced starch produced by PlanticTechnologies.
It can be used as a fresh food packaging material because can keep produce fresher for longer. Being derived from biomass resources, the product cuts CO2 emissions and is certified by the European authority Vinçotte.
Eco plastic
“The amount of barrier contained in Plantic eco plastic is superior to what is currently available,” added Morris.
“The partnership came into effect last month and was launched at Tokyo Pack exhibition. Plantic will supply material that Kuraray will market and resell.”
According to Morris, the company is continuing to expand its customer base and applications using its ultra high barrier renewable sourced materials.
Kuraray was established in Kurashiki City, Japan, in 1926 where it started the industrial production of viscose rayon. Through its research and development it succeeded in building up extensive expertise in the fields of polymer chemistry, synthetic chemistry and chemical engineering.
It now develops and manufactures products ranging from synthetic resins, fine chemicals, non-woven fabrics and synthetic leather to laser discs and medical products.
Kenzo Okamoto, manager global marketing group, EVAL Division, Kuraray, said Plantic Technologies ultra-high barrier material complements its existing range of resins and films.
Plantic’s biodegradable and sustainable polymer technology is based on the use of high-amylose corn starch, a material derived from annual harvesting of specialized non-GM (hybrid) corn.