The global market for nutraceuticals - i.e. food supplements such as vitamins, minerals and proteins - is forecast to more than double by 2032. Südpack Medica is responding to this with a sustainable blister solution, which was presented at the Vitafoods trade fair (20-22 May 2025, Barcelona): NutriGuard, an innovative polypropylene-based packaging concept that is fully recyclable and serves as an alternative to conventional PVC/PVdC/aluminium systems.
NutriGuard offers an excellent water vapour barrier, high aroma protection, high transparency and optimised push-through behaviour of the lidding film. This only breaks at the respective tablet position and prevents the entire film from tearing - an advantage in terms of dosing and product safety.
Südpack manufactures the required compounds itself and can therefore develop customised formulations for various dosage forms such as tablets, hard or soft capsules.
Fit for the circular economy and regulatory requirements
The packaging concept fulfils the requirements of the EU Packaging Ordinance (PPWR) and enables allocation to existing recycling streams. In addition, manufacturers benefit from lower EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) fees, which will be gradually calculated on the basis of recyclability from 2025.
Recyclable and food-compliant printing inks can also be used without any problems - without additional surface treatment of the lidding film, according to the company.
Expertise in pharmaceutical and food packaging
NutriGuard is based on the award-winning PharmaGuard system, which was developed for pharmaceutical applications. Südpack Medica brings decades of experience in film extrusion, compounding and recirculation - for food as well as for medical and diagnostic packaging.
Versatile use - also for probiotic products
The barrier properties of the blister film could be supplemented by additional functional layers - for example for probiotic food supplements that require special protection against moisture and oxygen. The films can be processed at low processing temperatures and therefore offer advantages in terms of energy efficiency and product protection, the company concludes.
Source: South pack
