KM Packaging has launched K-Nature Paper HBe, described as a high barrier paper packaging material designed to eliminate consumer confusion around recycling.
The product is said to be kerbside recyclable in ‘major markets’ and can be used for vertical and horizontal flow wrap, form fill and seal, and pre-made pouch packaging products.
KM added that Paper HBe’s material composition of >85% paper, with a strong PE coating and EVOH barrier, makes it an ‘ideal alternative’ for many products that currently use flexible plastic packaging.
Andrzej Kukula, technical and new product development manager, said, “Creating an over 85% paper-based product that performs as well as plastic is a real achievement. The end consumer and producers are looking at sustainable alternatives to plastic and our Paper HBe product could well be the answer. The material’s high paper quantity means that it has good recyclability, which can only grow the confidence the consumer has in the brands that use it.”
The product is now in stores internationally, with KM stating that consumer reaction has been ‘positive’.
Andrzej Kukula added, “Sustainability initiatives across the world are causing a recalibration of how the food industry does packaging, and it’s our duty to respond to those demands. We’ve known for a long time that shoppers want to recycle as much as they possibly can. The introduction of Paper HBe represents a practical, forward-thinking solution that upholds functionality while advancing recyclability. We view this as a benchmark for the industry, demonstrating that paper-based alternatives can effectively replicate the utility of plastic without compromise.”
