Made using Notpla’s barrier coating technology, the solution has a superior oil barrier function and is completely authorised for food contact

NotplaWEB3_640_480_s_c1

The product is available as both off-the-shelf Notpla own-brand takeaway boxes and custom printed formats. (Credit: Coveris)

European packaging manufacturer Coveris has partnered with sustainable start-up Notpla to develop a new line of printed, biodegradable and recyclable food cartons.

Made using Notpla’s barrier coating technology, the new specially coated board packs use speciality water-based inks to address both packaging and food waste challenges.

According to Coveris, the new naturally coated board packs are can replace all-plastic containers and hybrid filmic-laminated board solutions that need a plastic lining for grease and moisture resistance.

Notpla Coating is a special blend of seaweed and plant extracts that is applied on cardboard made from sustainably harvested materials.

It serves as a food-safe barrier function and decomposes naturally in four-six weeks after use and in contrast to PLA, it enables the pack to be recycled and composted at home.

Coveris has collaborated with Notpla as the exclusive development and print partner for the new coated board packaging to create a fully printed, branded solution that works in conjunction with the sustainable coating.

The printed packets are completely authorised for food contact and have an improved oil barrier function that surpasses plastic in most situations.

Coveris Food-on-the-move category director Emma Moate said: “We’re really proud to have worked alongside Notpla as their development and print partner, marking a major step in delivering a more sustainable future for foodservice brands and products.

“Given the functional requirements of packaging combined with disposal challenges in this sector, the new coated packs really are the packaging of the future, supporting our journey towards No Waste through combined food and packaging waste reduction for our customers.”

The new packs have already been introduced at the Women’s Euro 2022 final held at Wembley Stadium in July.

Notpla has also developed a novel comparative test that demonstrates how quickly Notpla Coating degrades naturally in comparison to other coating materials for food-to-go applications.