Revolutionizing Sustainability: Metsä Group and Amcor Join Forces to Create Eco-Friendly Recyclable Food Packaging

Metsä Group, a forestry company, and Amcor, a leader in sustainable packaging, are teaming up to create innovative moulded fibre packaging for food. This partnership focuses on developing eco-friendly packaging that meets increasing consumer demand for sustainability.

Their collaboration features Muoto™, a wood-based packaging solution from Metsä Spring. This product is enhanced by Amcor’s advanced film technology. Together, they aim to produce packaging that not only protects food but also extends its shelf life.

Muoto is made from renewable materials sourced from Nordic forests, making it a great alternative to traditional plastic. The addition of Amcor’s film provides extra functionality, allowing the package to be securely sealed, which is crucial for certain food items.

Jarkko Tuominen from Metsä noted that this partnership is a major leap towards sustainable packaging. Both companies are committed to reducing their environmental footprint, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in innovation.

Amcor’s AmFiber™ products, which are already on the market, cover a range of food applications, including snacks and dairy. According to Ilya Syshchikov from Amcor, the joint effort brings together extensive material and market expertise, promising high-quality, sustainable solutions.

Interestingly, the new packaging will be recyclable in most markets, boasting a CEPI recyclability score over 80%. The goal is to develop a fully compostable option in the future, with initial products expected to hit European stores soon.

Metsä Group is currently testing Muoto products at a demo plant in Äänekoski. They are also assessing plans for a larger commercial factory.

The significance of this collaboration can be viewed against the broader backdrop of increased focus on sustainability. Recent studies show that more than 70% of consumers are actively seeking eco-friendly packaging options. As consumers grow more environmentally conscious, partnerships like this could reshape the packaging industry.

For additional insights, you can refer to the European Paper Packaging Report.

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