Speciality paper and carton board producer, Sappi, has partnered with flexible packaging producer, Constantia Flexibles, to drive forward innovation in sustainable packaging.

This partnership has resulted in the development of solutions suitable for recyclable paper production processes, specifically the creation of the YES! snack bar wrapped in recyclable paper for Nestlé.

 Sappi Europe vice-president of innovations and sustainability Susanne Oste said with the increased global push for environmentally friendly and sustainable paper-based packaging solutions, the companies have made great strides in developing breakthrough proprietary barrier technology to offer new opportunities to satisfy this need.

“Sappi has been working with leading consumer brand owners to develop and supply renewable paper-based packaging solutions understanding and supporting the goals of making their packaging recyclable without compromising on food protection and shelf life,” Oste said.

“One example of this is the new Sappi Guard range of products providing brand owners with a paper confectionery wrapper to meet market demand for more sustainable products.”

According to Sappi Europe packaging and speciality papers vice-president of sales and marketing Thomas Kratochwill, the acquisition of Scottish barrier film technology company Rockwell Solutions in 2017 gave Sappi the opportunity to enhance its product offering by adding recyclable barrier coatings to its products.

“The recent launch of the YES! bar by Nestlé provides a clear example of the benefits brought through collaboration across the value chain in our joint efforts to increase the use of recyclable packaging made from renewable wood fibre,” he said.

“Sappi’s own strong commitment to developing sustainable paper-based solutions is bolstered by strong partners. It is only with strong leadership that the new products consumers expect will be realised and shared.”

Constantia Flexibles consumer executive vice-president Stefan Grote said the company recognises the importance of actively contributing to the circular economy.

“With our new innovation, we have strongly underlined our competencies in paper-based packaging solutions that ensure high product quality and freshness over the entire shelf life. This is an important step towards more sustainable products that may innovate the confectionery packaging,” Grote said.

“We are very proud of this successful joint effort in the project with Nestlé and passionate to drive sustainable packaging solutions globally.”