Category: Blog

Humans have extracted more raw materials since the Second World War than at any other time in our history. Our planet’s resources are finite. The linear
economy which is based on the idea of “extract, manufacture, consume and throw away” is unsustainable over the long term.1 In the circular economy, products are reused and what cannot be reused is recycled or organically broken down.

This white paper firstly looks at the environmental issues involving food packaging along with the advantages and disadvantages of paper packaging.
Lactips’ Plastic Free PaperTM is also introduced as a way to respond to a host of environmental issues. Secondly, we present how sustainable packaging can improve a company’s communication strategy and we point out the best ways to inform your target audience about Plastic Free PaperTM.

Read the white paper

For a long time, plastic additives have been used to ensure the watertightness and sealability of paper packaging. While these substances allow for food use, they have the disadvantage of disrupting the recyclability and biodegradability of the cellulose fibres!

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ is the first fully recyclable and compostable paper packaging solution that does not contain plastic or any controversial substances.

 

What is 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™?

An innovative product

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ is the result of the co-development, with the eco-organisation CITEO, of a new coating solution for cellulose matrices.

This innovative product, composed of cellulose fibres coated with a natural polymer based on milk casein, is thus the first generation of heat-sealable packaging paper without plastic.

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™, a sustainable, high-performance and safe packaging.

• Sustainable: 100% biobased, recyclable, biodegradable and allows the integration of recycled fibres
• High performance: Barrier to grease, oxygen, aromas and mineral oils (MOSH and MOAH)
• Safe: complies with food contact requirements and is free from controversial substances (PFAs)

What are the applications of 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™?

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ can be used to package dry or fatty products, for food or non-food applications:

• Routing films
• Heat-sealable food films
• Packaging for tea, chocolate, confectionery, biscuits, croquettes…
• Paper and cardboard for fast food

 

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™, a solution to plastic pollution!

As the name suggests, 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ does not contain plastic, but a natural polymer within the meaning of the REACH regulation and the SUP directive.  This product is not affected by the obligations and bans of the “Single-Use Directive” on plastics.

Recyclable

Unlike PE-coated paper packaging, no chemicals are needed to separate the cellulose layers from the resin, as the resin is water-soluble.

During recycling, the pulp passes through the filters without leaving any sticky residue and 100% of the paper is recovered.

Guaranteed to have no impact on the recyclability of paper and cardboard, according to tests carried out by:

•  The Centre Technique du Papier (CTP), in France
• The Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS), in Germany

Water soluble and degradable in water

The plastic-free resin contained in 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ is not only water-soluble, but also biodegradable in water. This means that on the one hand, the resin dissolved in water during the paper recycling stage is not a waste product.

On the other hand, 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ is a biodegradable packaging solution (in both fresh and sea water) and it does not pose a danger to aquatic organisms unlike microplastics.

Biodegradability of the resin in fresh water – Certified with the OK BIODEGRADABLE WATER S0907 mark of conformity from TÜV Austria

Biodegradability of the resin in seawater – The resin was tested with a biodegradation test based on ASTM D6691 (2017)^[1]

Finally a truly compostable packaging!

Biodegradation of materials is often limited to composting under industrial conditions, which is misleading to the consumer.

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ has the advantage of being a fully compostable solution at home!

Compostable at home – The compostability of the resin contained in 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ has been certified by the OK COMPOST HOME mark of TÜV Austria^[2].

 

^[1] Its decay was also tested (95 μm). After an incubation period in natural seawater, 100% complete decay was achieved.

^[2] Les exigences de la marque OK COMPOST HOME sont basées sur la norme EN13432, et sont plus strictes que les exigences du compost industriel.

*TÜV Austria OK Water Biodegradable and OK Compost Home Certificate S0907 covers the Lactips thermoplastic pellets reference CareTips 300A. Specific grades can be certified upon request.

 

Trays, films and heat-sealable pouches play an essential role in food preservation. However, in addition to being an environmental hazard, the plastics they are made of are not without health risks!

Are there heat-sealable solutions without plastic? The answer is yes!

 

Why is heat-sealable packaging used?

Heat sealing is a process whereby a plastic material is welded to another material (e.g. during tray packing) or to itself, in the case of sealing a plastic film.

Heat sealing is used to seal a package to protect the contents.

Heat-sealable routing films to protect press articles

These packaging films are used to transport magazines, brochures, periodicals, leaflets, newspapers, etc. Since 1 January 2022, the AGEC law prohibits plastic packaging for shipped press publications.

As an alternative to plastic films, some professionals have opted for paper solutions coated with water-based heat-sealable glue, while others have opted to do away with packaging.

Heat-sealable films to preserve foodstuffs

Depending on the products to be preserved, a food packaging will have to ensure different barrier functions against oxygen, gases, oils, fats or water vapour.

It must also meet strict regulatory requirements concerning the materials that can be used.

Heat sealing allows these packages to be hermetically sealed and to better preserve foodstuffs.

 

Problems with the use of plastic in food packaging

Health risks

Plastics have the advantage of providing effective barrier layers for the preservation of foodstuffs. However, the use of plastics is not trivial and the migration of micro and nano plastics into our food is a reality that is beginning to be highlighted by recent scientific studies^[1].

Although the impact of these particles on human health is still poorly understood, a potential “cocktail effect” could be the cause of various health problems in the long term ^[2]. Furthermore, the health risk of the use of PFAs has been raised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)^[3].

A significant environmental impact

According to a WWF France report, 80,000 tonnes of plastic waste end up in the environment every year and household packaging alone accounts for a quarter of this figure.

In order to stop this plastic haemorrhage, the AGEC law has set a deadline of 2040 for the end of single-use plastic, which obliges manufacturers to gradually turn to plastic-free solutions!

Heat-sealable food packaging: alternatives to traditional plastics?

 Are there any heat-sealable solutions with the same advantages as plastic? Fortunately, the answer is yes!

 

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™, a plastic-free coating for cellulose packaging

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ is a plastic-free solution made from a heat-sealable, non-toxic and environmentally responsible natural polymer:

• The plastic-free resin has no effect on the recyclability of coated papers
• Our solution is biodegradable in water and in marine environments
• 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿™ is also compostable at home!

 

^[1] See for example the study “Honey quality and migration of microplastics from food packaging: A potential threat to consumer health”, open access https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8929/1/3/30/htm

^[2] A recent study on mice shows that food contamination can affect the functioning of our gut

^[3] Report published in 2020: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/pfas-food-efsa-assesses-risks-and-sets-tolerable-intake

When companies are aiming for plastic-free, they would like an alternative having the exact same properties as conventional plastics while meeting all the best end-of-life scenarios. Are they dreaming awake? Could bioplastic packaging be both recyclable and properly biodegradable in all types of environments?

Flavie Bancel, our Business Development Manager, explains:
✔️ what are our natural polymer pellets,
✔️ how their solubility fits recyclability as well as compostability, and even reusability,
✔️ and how education supports adequate transition for the end-users and the industries.

Enjoy listening

1. Behind the SUP Directive

In the middle of the climate crisis, plastic appear to be one of the problems at the spotlight. Action is required to overcome the damage that plastic is causing to environment. On European area alone, more than 25 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated yearly, and only 30% is collected for recycling, while 85% of marine pollution comes from this source[1]. Plastic waste exports[2] going to Turkey, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand or Indonesia coming from European Union countries continued at high levels at the end of 2020.

Among the impacts of plastic pollution, single-use and disposable items (such as bags, straws, coffee cups, beverage bottles and most food packaging) are growing as each year more plastic waste accumulates in our environment and oceans¹.

 

2. What is the SUP Directive

Its real name is DIRECTIVE (EU) 2019/904 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, however, it is commonly known as the Single Use Plastics (SUP) Directive.

The SUP Directive was first proposed to tackle single-use plastic products which are the most founded on beaches and fishing gear.

As stated in the Directive, ‘single-use plastic product’ means a product that is made wholly or partly from plastic and that is not conceived, designed or placed on the market to accomplish, within its life span, multiple trips or rotations by being returned to a producer for refill or re-used for the same purpose for which it was conceived;

According to this definition, the Single-Use Plastic Directive includes in its scope other products laminated with plastic, such as paper packaging and plates made of paper with a plastic layer (also known as coated paper).

All types of plastic are included in the scope of the Directive, even biobased and biodegradable plastics. Except from unmodified natural polymers, within the meaning of the definition of ‘not chemically modified substances’ in point 40 of Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council[3].

In the scope of the Single-Use Plastic Directive, we can find several categories of products, as can be seen in the Table 1. Each of these categories of products (food containers, cup for beverages, etc) are subject to different measures (consumption reduction, product ban, product design, etc.). So, according to this information, it is important to understand that the Single-Use Plastic Directive is not going to ban all Single Use Plastic products.

 

3. Food containers in SUP

“Food containers” was one of the categories which caused most controversy and aroused more questions: Which food containers are under the scope of the Directive? What are the measures applied to them?

Several types of food containers are included in the Single-Use Plastic Directive: take-away packaging, packets and wrappers, beverage bottles, cups for beverages… Depending on the category, different measures will apply to these products. In this article we will only focus on food containers, excluding beverage packaging.

Table 1. Product categories and measure applied in SUP Directive

• Rigid food containers in the scope of the Directive

According to the definitions given by the SUP Directive, food containers refer to the packaging used to contain food that will be consumed immediately (commonly known as take-away packaging):

 

  

“Food containers, i.e. receptacles such as boxes, with or without a cover, used to contain food which:

(a) is intended for immediate consumption, either on-the-spot or take-away,

(b) is typically consumed from the receptacle, and

(c) is ready to be consumed without any further preparation, such as cooking, boiling or heating, including food containers used for fast food or other meal ready for immediate consumption, except beverage containers, plates and packets and wrappers containing food.”

 

The following concept map can help to understand whether a food packaging is included, or not, under the scope of the Directive:

Further information regarding the definition and examples of these kind of packaging can be found in the Commission guidelines on single-use plastic products in accordance with Directive (European Union) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment.

 

• Flexible food containers in the scope of the Directive: Packets and wrappers

According to the SUP Directive, “packets and wrappers” are plastic or plastic-coated products made of flexible material containing food for immediate consumption:

“Packets and wrappers made from flexible material containing food that is intended for immediate consumption from the packet or wrapper without any further preparation”[4]

The following concept map can help to understand whether a food packaging is included, or not, under the scope of the Directive:

Further information regarding the definition and examples of these kind of packaging can be found in the Commission guidelines on single-use plastic products in accordance with Directive (European Union) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment.

 

4. Measures applied to food packaging products^[5]

As explained before not all products are covered by the same measures, consumption reduction measures will be applied to food packaging mentioned in part 3.1, only extended polystyrene food packaging have been banned in Europe, while extended producer responsibility and awareness raising measures apply to both categories of food packaging explained in this article.

 

• Consumption reduction (only for rigid packaging products mentioned in part 3.1)

Member States are responsible to take measures to achieve ambitious and sound reduction in the consumption of single-use food packaging products as specified in part 3.1 of this article. Those measures shall achieve a measurable quantitative reduction in the consumption of the single-use plastic food packaging products of the Member State by 2026 compared to 2022.

By July 3rd of 2021, Member States were supposed to prepare a description of these measures and notify to the Commission. The measures may include national consumption reduction targets, measures ensuring that re-usable alternatives to the single-use plastic food packaging products are made available at the point of sale to the final consumer.

• Product ban (only EPS products included in part 3.1)

Only rigid food containers, as specified in 3.1, made of expanded polystyrene have been prohibited in Europe since July 2021, i.e. receptacles such as boxes, with or without a cover, used to contain food which:

• is intended for immediate consumption, either on-the-spot or take-away,
• is typically consumed from the receptacle, and
• is ready to be consumed without any further preparation

 

• Extended producer responsibility

Member States shall ensure that extended producer responsibility schemes are established for single-use plastic products listed in part 3.1 and 3.2 of this article which are placed on the market of the Member State, in accordance with Articles 8 and 8a of Directive 2008/98/EC. Member States shall ensure that the producers cover the costs pursuant to the extended producer responsibility provisions in Directives 2008/98/EC and 94/62/EC and, insofar as not already included, cover the following costs:

• the costs of the awareness raising measures referred to in Article 10 of this Directive regarding those products;
• the costs of waste collection for those products that are discarded in public collection systems, including the infrastructure and its operation, and the subsequent transport and treatment of that waste;
• the costs of cleaning up litter resulting from those products and the subsequent transport and treatment of that litter.

 

• Awareness raising

According to Article 10, Member States along Europe will be responsible to inform consumers and to promote responsible consumer behaviour to reduce litter from food packaging included in the Directive. This information includes the availability of reusable alternatives and the impact of littering and other inappropriate waste disposal of single use products.

 

5. What are the options?

Europe seems to be pushing for reusability. And indeed, incentivise the use of reusable packaging for the consumption of “fast” products which are intended for immediate consumption without further preparation seems to be the best option in terms of saving environmental impact. However, establishments such as supermarkets or restaurants need to offer alternatives in case their clients are not bringing with them a reusable option.

These alternatives have been, up to now, led by paper packaging. However, paper products need grease barrier to make sure that the consumption is convenient for the customer. For many years, PFAS have been used to provide this barrier, however these chemicals have been found to be extremely dangerous for human health and environment. PFAS is a large family of over 4,500 compounds, also known as “Forever Chemicals” due to their extreme persistence in the environment. PFAS are widely used in disposable food packaging and tableware in Europe. This includes food packaging from popular fast-food chains and restaurants. [6]

Other options for paper with grease and oxygen barrier are now been developed, for example, Lactips offers solutions like Plastic Free Paper: the first paper packaging solution that is free from plastic or controversial substances and fully recyclable and compostable.

Lactips has developed, with support from the eco-organization CITEO, a new cellulose material coating solution that ensures the total recyclability of papers and cardboards. This first generation combines the paper with the thermoplastic developed by Lactips to meet the challenges relating to performance capabilities and sustainable development.

100% biosourced, home compostable and heat-sealed, the Plastic Free Paper solutions provide the oxygen, fat and mineral oil barriers that are essential for preserving food products. This material is fully compliant with food contact standards.

Tests carried out with Centre Technique du Papier (CTP) in France and Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS) in Germany have confirmed that there is no impact on the recyclability of the papers and cardboards for the first two applications available:

Replacing the sealable plastic layer for non-food packaging, such as mailing films or food films for dry or fatty products (tea bags, confectionery, pet chews, etc.)

Replacing per- or poly-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) for papers that need to be grease-proof (e.g. fast food packaging)

The Plastic Free Paper solutions offer a real alternative for manufacturers (processors and/or brands) in the context of their environmental efforts and the application of the European directive restricting single-use plastics (Directive 2019/904/EC). The material developed by Lactips is not a plastic, but a natural material, in accordance with European Regulation no.1907/2006 (REACH), and is therefore exempt from the demands and restrictions set by this directive.

Coating material solutions with no impact on paper recycling process

 

[1] plastics-strategy.pdf (europa.eu)

[2] https://www.ban.org/plastic-waste-project-hub/trade-data/eu-export-data

[3] DIRECTIVE (European Union) 2019/904 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment

[4] DIRECTIVE (EU) 2019/904 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment

[5] DIRECTIVE (EU) 2019/904 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment

[6] Throwaway packaging forever chemicals. European wide survey of PFAS in disposable food packaging and tableware

BIOPACK aims to develop B4Tips; a novel water-soluble polymer compound to make packaging material for household applications that is bio-based and meets the ambitious EN13432 standard biodegradable criteria. Two formulations of B4Tips will be developed to be compatible with injection moulding and blown film extrusion respectively. Both will meet biodegradability criteria and water-solubility and have excellent mechanical properties for optimal functionality during storage and transportation, thereby meeting the market’s user needs.

 

The majority of plastic packaging available today originates from non-renewable fossil resources and lacks biodegradability, leading to environmental concerns. The European Union (EU) is suggesting actions aimed at motivating Europe to embrace eco-friendly methods of plastic disposal, which involve the utilization of non-persistent plastics, leaving no traces to the environment. In the context of detergent tablets, substitutes for conventional water-insoluble packaging plastics have been created, one of which is Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). However, the effectiveness of this solution is restricted due to its incomplete biodegradability, as evidenced by the discharge of over 8,000 tons of PVOH into wastewater treatment systems annually.

 

BIOPACK aims to develop B4PTips, a novel water-soluble material for household applications that is fully bio-based and meets ambitious criteria in non-persistency. Two formulations of B4Tips which are compatible with blown film extrusion and injection moulding process will be developed. By developing B4Tips using these two industrial processes, the BIOPACK project can scale the B4Tips application for a wider market application.

The compatibility of the material with existing industrial polymer processing techniques, its controlled water solubility and complete biodegradability will speed up the adoption of B4Tips;  a sustainable alternative for various packaging and product applications. The development of this innovative technology  is challenging as the material will have to be made water-soluble and moreover meet high convenience standards for the end-user.

To develop this innovative product the consortium partners will combine their forces. Lactips has already developed CareTips®, a material sourced out of casein derivatives. B4Plastics will build on the knowledge of their current technology platform TriggerPlastics. The properties of TriggerPlastics are very tunable, through the implementation of B4Plastics’ polymeric architecture know-how. In this project the strengths of TriggerPlastics will be combined with the strengths of CareTips®, to compound a novel water-soluble polymer B4Tips with improved mechanical, and ageing properties that will allow us to capture a larger market share.

 

About the partners B4Plastics is a Belgium based Polymer Architecture company (SME) that catalyzes the introduction of novel biomaterials and growing them from niche to bulk applications. It’s B4Plastics’ mission to push the old fossil plastics towards the New Plastics Economy by striking the best balance between functionality, ecology and cost. B4Plastics’ excellence centre has an extensive polymer library and a unique set of expertise to redesign plastics tackling the material challenges of various high impact markets. Lactips is a French based company (SME) that specializes in the production of thermoplastics based on proteins, compliant with REACH as Natural Polymer and compatible with SUP directive. Lactips’ product, called CareTips®, is biosourced, water-soluble, biodegradable, printable, has barrier properties (to oxygen, fats, and mineral oils),

 

Single Use Plastics Directive

Its real name is DIRECTIVE (EU) 2019/904 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, however, it is commonly known as the Single Use Plastics (SUP) Directive.

The SUP Directive was first proposed to tackle single-use plastic products which are the most founded on beaches and fishing gear.

As stated in the Directive, ‘single-use plastic product’ means a product that is made wholly or partly from plastic and that is not conceived, designed or placed on the market to accomplish, within its life span, multiple trips or rotations by being returned to a producer for refill or re-used for the same purpose for which it was conceived;

According to this definition, the SUP Directive includes in its scope other products laminated with plastic, such as paper packaging and plates made of paper with a plastic layer (also known as coated paper).

All types of plastic are included in the scope of the Directive, even biobased and biodegradable plastics. Except from unmodified natural polymers, within the meaning of the definition of ‘not chemically modified molecules’ in point 40 of Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council[1].

In the Single Use Plastics Directive we find the definition of plastic as:

What is a plastic?

A ‘plastic’ means a material consisting of a polymer as defined in point 5 of Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, to which additives or other substances may have been added, and which can function as a main structural component of final products, with the exception of natural polymers that have not been chemically modified;

But what are “natural polymers that have not been chemically modified”?

Polymers that meet the following two conditions laid down in point (1) of Article 3 are exempt from the Directive:

• they qualify as natural polymers and
• they meet the requirement of having not been chemically modified.

I. What is a natural polymer?

The term natural polymer is defined in the ECHA Guidance as follows:

‘Natural polymers are understood as polymers which are the result of a polymerisation process that has taken place in nature, independently of the extraction process with which they have been extracted

What is a polymerisation process which takes place in nature?

Based on the REACH Regulation and the related ECHA Guidance, polymers produced via an industrial fermentation process are not considered natural polymers since polymerisation has not taken place in nature. Therefore, polymers resulting from biosynthesis through man-made cultivation and fermentation processes in industrial settings, e.g. polyhydroxyalkanoates polymer (PHA), are not considered natural polymers as not being the result of a polymerisation process that has taken place in nature.

This statement caused big controverse because these types of polymers have been considered as natural produced via biosynthesis in bacteria. However, the industrial process to produce PHA polymer is not a natural process although PHA polymer may be made through a natural bacterial process, the bacteria are placed under “stress” and are then “bursted”, hence according to the directive this cannot be catalogued as a natural polymer.[2]

II. What is not chemically modified?

Recital 11 of the Directive explains that the term not chemically modified molecules should be read in accordance with point (40) of Article 3 of the REACH Regulation, which states: ‘not chemically modified substance: means a substance whose chemical structure remains unchanged, even if it has undergone a chemical process or treatment, or a physical mineralogical transformation, for instance to remove impurities.’

Where changes in the chemical structure of a polymer result from reactions that are only taking place during the extraction process of a natural polymer (e.g. wood pulping process to extract cellulose and lignin), these are not considered to result in a chemical modification of the natural polymer in the meaning of point (1) of Article 3 and Recital 11 of the Directive.

Paper materials out of the scope of the Directive

Paper material resulting from the wood pulping process is not considered to be made of chemically modified natural polymers. This interpretation is also in line with the Impact Assessment accompanying the European Commission’s proposal for this Directive (hereafter, ‘the Impact Assessment’), in which paper-based products without plastic lining or coating have been identified as available, more sustainable, alternatives to single-use plastic products (5).

Casein as a natural polymer

CareTips material is mainly done from Casein. Casein is one of the oldest natural polymers, used for adhesives, dating back to thousands of years ago[3]. As with many other naturally-produced polymers, such as starch, tree gums, and clays, milk protein components exhibit excellent adhesive properties, and have been used as one of the major natural adhesive ingredients for thousands years, until the advent synthetic petroleum-based polymers.

1. Polymerisation takes place in nature: The casein micelle itself is a heterogeneous polymer complex, made of different casein molecules, composed themselves of different amino acids molecules. Amino acids chain (polymerisation) process takes place in nature, in the cow organism.
2. Extraction process: as stated in the definition the status of natural polymer is independent of the extraction process. There are several methods to extract the casein from milk. Acidification or enzymatic coagulations are generally used, followed by mechanical processes.
3. Not chemically modified: The production process of CareTips® is a thermo-mechanical process. No chemical modification takes place. Hence, the natural polymer remains chemically untouched.

In this sense, Lactips material (CareTips®) is considered as a natural polymer, and not a plastic. Hence, Lactips has launched Plastic Free Paper: the first paper packaging solution that is free from plastic or controversial substances and fully recyclable and compostable, which complies completely with the SUP Directive.

Innovation developed in collaboration with the eco-organization CITEO to rethink the world of packaging, while ensuring full control over their end-of-life, food preservation and food safety

Plastic Free Paper: the only coating solution to replace plastics and chemical treatments for sealable packaging papers, a barrier to oxygen, fats and mineral oils.

Plastic-free coating of paper packaging

 

[1] DIRECTIVE (EU) 2019/904 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment

[2] https://bioplasticsnews.com/2021/06/01/eu-guidelines-sup-directive/

[3] https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/8/9/324/htm

Sometimes mistakenly presented as less environmentally friendly than plastic, paper is a packaging material with many advantages. Here’s why paper is an effective and sustainable solution.

The difference between biogenic and fossil CO₂

As a plastic bag is about twice as light as a paper bag, its carbon footprint appears to be better, on first analysis.

However, there is some controversy about this carbon impact, as there are two types of CO₂ emissions:

• Fossil CO₂ emissions, resulting from the burning of carbon buried underground for thousands of years;
• Biogenic CO₂ emissions, from the photosynthesis of sustainably managed plants;

It is therefore important to consider that paper is a material derived from plant biomass and is therefore renewable. Although there are also biobased plastics, this is not the case for petroleum-based plastics.

According to Materials Economics^[1], EU CO₂ emissions from plastic packaging are expected to double by 2050 if current trends continue.

Paper is easily recyclable

In 2019, the recycling rate for household packaging was estimated at 70.3%, according to CITEO, all materials combined.

However, there are major disparities between types of packaging: while steel is recycled at 100% and glass at 83%, plastic packaging has a recycling rate of less than 30%.

With a recycling rate of 70%, paper and cardboard packaging is well positioned.

Paper and board: the main packaging materials in the EU

From 2009 to 2019, “paper and board” was the main packaging waste in the EU (32.2 million tonnes in 2019), followed by plastic and glass (15.4 million tonnes for plastic waste and 15.2 million tonnes for glass waste in 2019)^[2].

LCA studies do not allow for an objective comparison between paper and plastic packaging

It is no longer a secret that the major impact of plastics on the environment is marine pollution. Indeed, of the 300 million tonnes of plastic produced each year worldwide, between 8 and 12 million end up in the oceans. This is why we hear that by 2050 the oceans will contain more plastic than fish^[3]!

However, according to Zero Waste Europe^[4], some environmental factors, including marine pollution, are not taken into account in the LCA method, as well as the toxicity of certain materials and additives. Ideally, LCAs should therefore include the impact of marine waste and the toxicity of microplastics

While the scientific community is currently trying to fill this gap^[5], the impact of plastic is currently largely downplayed and LCA studies of food packaging are often used to justify plastic pollution.

Properly treated paper is perfectly capable of preserving food

Compared to plastic, paper has the disadvantage that it is not water, oil and oxygen proof. However, this limitation is not inevitable: once treated, paper is perfectly capable of providing the barrier functions necessary for food preservation.

Conventional treatments based on chemicals such as perfluorinated substances (PFAs, PFOAs and PFOs) are effective, but recent studies have shown them to be harmful^[6]. They have been banned in Denmark and will soon be restricted in Europe

Fortunately, sustainable and non-harmful solutions exist for some barriers and consumers are now willing to pay more for sustainable and healthier alternatives.

Plastic Free Paper^TM:The solution for efficient and sustainable paper packaging

Lactips has developed a sustainable, plastic-free paper packaging solution: Plastic Free Paper^TM. This is a solution:

• • Guarantees total recyclability of paper and cardboard ^[7].
  • 100% biosourced;
  • Can be composted at home;
  • Heat-sealable;
  • Guarantees barrier functions;

Plastic-free coating of paper packaging

 

^[1] https://materialeconomics.com/publications/sustainable-packaging

^[2] https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Packaging_waste_statistics

^[3] https://www.wingsoftheocean.com/actualites/pollution-plastique-chiffres/

^[4] http://zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Justifying-plastic-pollution_The-shortcomings-of-LCAs-in-food-packaging-policy_FoEE-ZWE-April-2018.pdf

^[5] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11367-017-1382-z

^[6] https://www.generations-futures.fr/actualites/pfas-rapport/

^[7] The absence of impact on recyclability has been validated by the Centre Technique du Papier (CTP) in France and the Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS) in Germany, on applications as a replacement for the sealable plastic layer for non-food packaging and as a replacement for perfluorinated compounds (PFAs) for papers requiring grease resistance.

Lactips’ CareTips® 300D grade complies with the new DIN CERTCO Flustix Plastic Free certification. The coveted “Plastic Free” label is explained.

 

What is the DIN CERTCO Plastic Free label?

Flustix Plastic Free is a sustainability label, awarded by DIN CERTCO – the certification body of the TÜV Rheinland Group, for plastic-free products. Flustix analyses products and supply chains and then labels approved items with the Flustix certification marks. Flustix supports alternatives to plastic and communicates sustainability for innovative brands.

 

What are the current ways to prove that polymers are plastic-free?

As a first step, under REACH (1907/2006 EC), natural polymers that have not been chemically modified are not considered a “plastic”, and are therefore excluded from the scope of the Single Use Directive. Therefore, CareTips® material is considered to be a natural polymer, which is why it is not considered a plastic from a regulatory perspective.

Secondly, polymers can be declared plastic-free by means of demanding labels such as the DIN CERTCO Flustix Plastic Free certification. In this way, analyses are carried out by an independent laboratory to check the composition of the material or product and to certify that it is completely free of plastic.

For which applications is this relevant?

The Plastic Free label is an interesting way to give credibility to our customers’ environmental claims and to highlight their environmental approach. Indeed, many everyday products contain plastics and this is not necessarily visible: paper packaging or water-soluble packaging for example. This certification allows us to quickly identify products for which a significant effort to reduce plastics has been made!

With CareTips® you can, for example, replace the plastic layer that provides the grease barrier on paper packaging and seals it, while at the same time communicating that the packaging is plastic-free.

Plastic-free coating of paper packaging

 

Whether fresh, dry, frozen, canned, pasteurised or dehydrated, food products must meet precise and complex preservation criteria. The packaging materials used play a key role in the preservation of food.

Food packaging: the importance of barrier functions

The purpose of food packaging today is to:

• Contain the product
• Protect the food against external aggression and guarantee its quality
• Extend the product’s shelf life
• Motivate the act of purchase through design and communication of the brand identity
• Inform the consumer

In order to isolate the product from the external environment, the packaging must therefore provide barrier functions.

• Oxygen and gas barrier: Oxygen deteriorates the quality of food, causes microbiological growth, promotes discolouration as well as nutrient loss. Many foods are therefore stored in a protective atmosphere (nitrogen or CO2), which requires a good gas barrier ;
• Barrier to oils and fats: ANSES considers it necessary to limit the migration of mineral oils to foodstuffs, some compounds being genotoxic and mutagenic ;
• Water vapour barrier: prevents a dry product from absorbing water and softening or a frozen product from losing its crunch.

In addition, depending on the product to be preserved, the packaging must also perform other functions such as:

• A certain amount of rigidity: while flexible packaging may be sufficient to store grated Emmenthal cheese, the storage of eggs requires rigid packaging to protect against shocks.
• Gas permeability: foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables need to breathe. Packaging that provides a total barrier to oxygen should therefore be avoided.

The problems of paper and cardboard food packaging

Toxic compounds

In 2017, the ANSES (French Food Safety Agency) highlighted the potential toxicity of certain paper and cardboard food packaging. ^[1]

Mineral oil residues from inks and adhesives were found in packaged foods.

Recycling seems to exacerbate the problem, as the process of reconstituting paper pulp encourages the incorporation of these residues into recycled packaging.

In addition, some greaseproof papers are treated with perfluorinated compounds (PFAs), whose health risk has been raised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)^[2].

The use of plastic barrier layers

To avoid any contamination, ANSES recommends “the use of barriers to limit the migration of MOH^[3] from the packaging to the food”.

Paper and cardboard packaging cannot therefore be used alone and the solutions currently proposed to limit the migration of contaminants also include plastic barrier layers (PE, PET, polyamide, acrylate, etc.) However, this also raises the question: do microplastics migrate into our food from these layers?

Multi-layered materials that are difficult to recycle

Paper and cardboard have the disadvantage of being permeable to water, oxygen and grease. They can therefore rarely be used as such.

The use of plastic materials or metallic layers as a coating is therefore necessary to ensure the barrier functions and to guarantee a hermetic seal of the food.

Unfortunately, these various coatings make it very difficult to recycle paper and many packages end up in landfill or incineration.

 

Plastic Free Paper^TM: A plastic-free paper solution

To overcome the problems associated with recycling, Lactips, in partnership with CITEO, has developed a plastic-free paper coating solution.

Plastic Free Paper^TM solution:

• Guarantees barrier functions against oxygen, grease and mineral oils;
• Is 100% biosourced and compostable at home;
• Is heat-sealable;
• Ensures total recyclability of paper and cardboard^[4] .

 

Plastic-free coating of paper packaging

 

^[1] Source : ANSES issues recommendations to reduce contamination of foodstuffs by mineral oils

^[2] Report published in 2020 : https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/pfas-food-efsa-assesses-risks-and-sets-tolerable-intake

^[3] MOH : Mineral oils

^[4] The absence of impact on recyclability has been validated by the Centre Technique du Papier (CTP) in France and the Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS) in Germany, on applications as a replacement for the sealable plastic layer for non-food packaging and as a replacement for perfluorinated compounds (PFAs) for papers requiring grease resistance.