Recyclable OPP Laminate For Noodles Packaging Sustainability is a driving force across the packaging industry today. Owing to environmental reasons and increased consumer awareness, brands are rapidly shifting to recyclable structures. Recently a leading brand approached Cosmo Films to develop recyclable packaging for its instant noodles.
The original noodles pack was using a BOPET + LDPE structure, while the seasoning sachet consisted of BOPET + aluminium foil + LDPE structure. These packages had recyclability challenges. Cosmo Films worked with the brand to develop a 2 ply olefin based recyclable laminate structure which consisted of BOPP and CPP films.The new fully recyclable packaging developed by Cosmo Films provided: ● ● ● ● ● ●
Enhanced moisture barrier Better aesthetic look High opacity Enhanced light barrier Improved pouch stiffness Good puncture resistance
Brands may require making the following minor modifications to churn out a good output:
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Retractable sealing jaws may have to be used so that during the machine stoppage, sealing jaws move away from the laminate edge. Use of coated jaws is recommended to avoid direct contact between sealing jaws & film. Machine should have a good thermostat control i.e. precise cut off time when it reaches the set temperature.
Laminate Comparison Seasoning Sachet Sr. No.
Property
Existing laminate structure
Recyclable olefin laminate structure
1
Laminate Structure
BOPET + Alu foil +PE
BOPP +Ultra High Barrier BOPP+ Clear CPP
2
Avg. unit weight
66 gsm
57.6 gsm
3
Reduction in unit weight (gsm)
4
Recyclability
Around 13% No, because of 3 diff. substrates
Yes, because of complete olefin structure
Outer Pouch Sr. No.
Property
Existing laminate structure
Recyclable olefin laminate structure
1
Laminate Structure
BOPET + White LDPE
High Barrier Heat Resistant BOPP + Specially designed White CPP
2
Avg. unit weight
41 gsm
43 gsm
3
Reduction in unit weight (gsm)
4
Recyclability
marginal increase around 4% No, because of 2 diff. substrates
Yes, because of complete olefin structure