As part of its current "Better Planet Packaging" initiative, Smurfit Kappa is working with Mitsubishi HiTec Paper to develop innovative, recyclable and food-safe packaging.
The combination of Smurfit Kappa's expertise in the field of paper-based packaging and Mitsubishi HiTec Paper's expertise in coated specialty papers has already resulted in the first product of the new product range being shortlisted as a finalist at the Swiss Packaging Awards.
The carton-based outer packaging was made from Smurfit Kappa's groundbreaking MB12 packaging solution, which has a unique integrated adsorption technology to protect against flavours and possible migration of substances. The inner packaging, made from BARRICOTE barrier paper from Mitsubishi HiTec Paper, offers protection against moisture and grease as well as very good heat sealability. This unique solution demonstrates the ability to produce functional carton-based packaging that is fully recyclable thanks to the optimized use of renewable raw materials in the barrier.
"It was a very interesting and cooperative process for us to work with Mitsubishi HiTec Paper on this project," says Lars Henriksson, Vice President Product Development, Smurfit Kappa Paper Division. "The fibers from which our industry-leading paper is made are an excellent solution for a variety of products due to a number of properties - not least their inherent sustainability.
Dr. Dieter Becker, Head of New Business Development & CSR at Mitsubishi HiTec Paper, adds: "As experts in specialty paper coatings, we have contributed our expertise in barrier and protective coatings to this process. Our solutions are completely free of foils, laminates, aluminum and fluorocarbons. Instead, we rely on the highest possible percentage of biodegradable resources, which is why the use of Smurfit Kappa's MB12 solution was particularly sensible".
HOBAKO AG, a Swiss manufacturer of chocolate products, together with its Swiss packaging provider SCHELLING AG, was the first to use the new carton-based packaging solution. This was already nominated in spring as a finalist in the categories of sustainability and technology of the Swiss Packaging Award.
