The British Crisp Co. is launching crisps in a new, fully recyclable paper packaging in the UK. The highly functional speciality polymer Hydropol from Aquapak is used.
The new paper packaging, which was developed in collaboration with Evopak, a manufacturer of sustainable paper-based flexible packaging, uses an innovative polymer, Hydropol, developed by Aquapak instead of conventional plastic. One wafer-thin layer of vacuum-coated aluminium keeps the crisps fresh, but does not affect the recyclability of the packaging. Hydropol can Recycled, reused and composted and is particularly compatible with anaerobic digestion. If Hydropol is accidentally released into the natural environment, it will dissolve and biodegrade as it is non-toxic and marine safe. It does not break down into harmful microplastics, so it can still be disposed of safely even if it is not disposed of as intended. It is already used in products such as reusable, heat-sealable paper envelopes used.
„Brits consume over eight billion packets of crisps every year, most of which are not recyclable and end up in landfill or incinerators - that's a lot of waste and a big environmental problem. Working with Evopak and using an exciting new polymer technology, we have developed the first fully recyclable crisps pack - something consumers have been demanding for a long time.“
Tom Lock, CEO of the British Snack Company
The packaging has been certified as recyclable in standard paper mills by OPRL, the only evidence-based labelling system for the recycling of packaging. This means that they are labelled with the green recycling logo and, unlike other crisp packets, can be disposed of with other paper in the household waste collection.
„Today's launch is an important milestone for Aquapak and our Hydropol technology, which can be commercialised on a large scale. This is a huge opportunity for brands and manufacturers who now have a viable, functional and recyclable alternative that enables full fibre recovery in a standard paper recycling process.“
Mark Lapping, Chief Executive Officer of Aquapak
Aquapak Polymers Ltd specialises in the development and manufacture of new polymer-based material technologies that offer both performance and environmental responsibility. Hydropol is a high performance polymer developed by Aquapak's own research chemists. It enables product and packaging designs that fulfil all necessary functional and performance requirements while increasing recycling, reducing harmful plastic pollution and supporting the circular economy. When extrusion coated or laminated onto paper, Hydropol offers additional Strength and barriers against oxygen, oil and grease, and its solubility enables 100 per cent recovery of paper fibres through paper recycling plants.
„We have developed a unique paper that has the potential to revolutionise packaging as we know it, thanks to the unique properties of Hydropol. The paper can be used in a range of applications, from snacks and confectionery to pet food, dry food and cereals, and it costs the same as existing materials.“
Daniel McAlister, Director of Business Operations at Evopak
Source: Aquapak
