A breakthrough in sustainability! Futamura, Repaq, and GK Sondermaschinenbau unveil fully compostable sachets, minimising environmental impact while maintaining efficiency.
In recent years, small sachet formats have garnered attention for the environmental challenges they pose. These compact plastic envelopes are widely used for condiments, sauces, personal care creams, and other liquid products. While convenient for consumers, they often highlight significant end-of-life disposal issues.
Estimates* suggest that approximately 855 billion sachets were used globally in 2018, most of which were produced with complex multi-layered packaging. Comprising polyolefin, aluminium, and polyester layers, these structures are difficult to recycle due to their incompatibility and the inability to separate components. In addition, their small size and frequent contamination by food worsens recycling challenges.
Introducing a breakthrough solution
Compostable film producer Futamura, flexible packaging converter Repaq, and machine producer GK Sondermaschinenbau have collaborated to craft a fully compostable solution for liquid sachet packaging. Developed over two years, this innovative solution uses NatureFlex™ technology to provide a sustainable alternative.
The compostable laminate includes a barrier cellulose film layer and a biofilm that creates hermetic seals. Certified for both industrial and home composting settings, this packaging offers a viable eco-friendly option for products such as ketchup, mustard, cooking sauces, and hand cream.
Proven efficiency and performance
This revolutionary packaging has undergone extensive testing, proving its ability to maintain shelf life and protect a range of sauces. When produced using GK Sondermaschinenbau machinery, these sachets demonstrated consistent performance without sacrifices in efficiency compared to conventional structures.
Key Features: – Efficient machineability on small, medium, and large GKS machinery.
– Shelf life of up to 12 months.
– Eco-friendly with zero downgrades in production speeds.
The first commercial sachets featuring this compostable design will soon hit the market, showcasing the enormous potential of sustainable innovation.
Expert perspectives
Sven Seevers, Technology Manager at Repaq, expressed, “It was vital for us to replace non-recyclable packaging with a compostable solution. This achievement, realised through exceptional co-operation, offers excellent product protection and clear ecological benefits while maintaining the same packing speeds.”
Nico Merkel, Sales Director at GK Sondermaschinenbau, said, “Our machinery proved instrumental in this project. The tests showcased remarkable results, with almost no adjustments required to implement Repaq’s solution.”
Joachim Janz, Regional Sales Manager at Futamura, added, “This launch is a significant milestone in the effort to provide sustainable packaging for both food and non-food items. Compostable liquids sachets represent genuine progress.”
