Recyclable wrap for food packaging

As a part of their sustainability strategies and to foster a conscious use of resources, it is becoming more and more important for companies in the packaging sector to achieve the highest possible degree of packaging recyclability. This extends to composite packaging for food. Composite film manufacturer allvac has had the recyclability of a new film certified by the cyclos-HTP institute.

The new PA/PE film is especially suited for wrapping food and boasts high recyclability, which cyclos-HTP has certified throughout the EU. The allflex SR is a further development of the allflex S film and retains the latter's positive qualities. Very important for the Point of Sale, it is highly transparent and shiny.

The eleven-layer film is suitable for foods like meat and sausage thanks to its high resistance to penetration, and can be readily moulded on machines. The new film differs from its predecessor in its high recyclability. According to the CHI standard, the allflex SR has a recyclability of 100 percent in the plastic film and LDPE flows. The films can also be reused with a recyclability of 75 percent via the mixed plastics flow and the mixed polyolefin flow.

The films are manufactured by coextrusion. With this film manufacturing technique, the molten mass exits through a wide slot nozzle, is cooled on a cooling roller and processed further. This technique also makes it possible to combine different films or use additives. The base of the films is polyamide (PA) and polyethylene (PE).

The technology is also characterised by high productivity. The quick cooling allows a high degree of surface shine, which can be attractive at the Point of Sale. Coextrusion produces film that is very flexible, yet resistant to penetration.

The composite film allows for a large window through which to see the product while still ensuring a long shelf life. allflex SR protects against wetness and humidity as well as against air and drying out. Packaged goods in frozen food and pasteurisation areas are protected by the film, which is especially relevant for goods like meat or sausage. The film is suitable for packaging produced on thermoforming machines and tolerates a temperature of up to 100 °C for up to four hours.