Amcor’s AmPrima forming film secures How2Recycle’s store drop-off label pre-qualification

14 May 2021 --- Amcor’s AmPrima forming film has received pre-qualification to carry the store drop-off label from the How2Recycle program.

The global plastic packaging supplier says the innovative technology paves the way for a true recycle-ready forming/non-forming flexible solution for consumer packaging applications.

AmPrima forming film is fully compatible with the Amcor portfolio of AmPrima PE Plus recycle-ready non-forming materials, which can be paired with EZ Peel technology for easy opening. 

The solution offers brand packagers a more environmentally sustainable, high-performance alternative to one of today’s most popular packaging formats.

“AmPrima forming film is an exciting option for companies seeking a future-ready solution that provides quantified environmental improvements,” explains Fabio Peyer, sustainability director at Amcor Flexibles North America.

“Switching to AmPrima forming film can reduce carbon footprint up to 69 percent compared to the incumbent nylon forming films.”

“AmPrima forming technology is an important milestone in our commitment to make all of our packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025.”AmPrima forming film positions hot dogs, string cheese or lunch meat brand owners as recycle-ready.

“Drop-in” alternative
The clear, high-barrier material delivers a “true ‘drop-in’” alternative to today’s traditional non-recyclable nylon forming films.

“AmPrima forming film drives our circular economy forward, providing a more sustainable choice without compromising performance, barrier properties or consumer appeal,” continues Peyer. 

“Our film runs on existing HFFS or thermoforming production lines and will not impact line speed, seal integrity or yield.”

The packaging development and label application process is simplified as the How2Recycle program has pre-qualified AmPrima forming film for the store drop-off label.

“With the AmPrima portfolio, customers can take a concept straight from package development to requesting usage of the How2Recycle store drop-off label,” adds Peyer.

Without pre-qualification status, brand owners must engage independent labs to verify that prospective packaging structures satisfy the requirements of the How2Recycle program for standardized labeling.

Certified recyclability
Beyond assessing scientific test data and regulatory trade claims, the How2Recycle approval process assures material recyclability in accordance with the Association of Plastic Recyclers, evaluating the collection, material sortation, reprocessing and end-market use.

Final approval for carrying How2Recycle’s store drop-off label is subject to conditions like product application and final package design.

Approved for clean and dry content, AmPrima forming film positions brand owners of popular applications like hot dogs, string cheese or lunch meat as recycle-ready when curbside recycling infrastructures become more commonly available.

Currently available in a broad range of formats, Amcor’s AmPrima recycle-ready solutions provide customers with a more sustainable flexible packaging choice to meet growing consumer and retail demand for recyclable packaging.

Other notable products certified as recycle-ready by How2Recycle include General Mills brand Nature Valley’s plastic film wrapper for its Crunchy granola bar and ProAmpac’s high-performance recyclable film for frozen premium food products.

Last year, Novolex increased its recycling capacity for store drop-off items, including retail bags, newspapers and dry cleaner bags, by more than 227,000 kg annually.

Edited by Joshua Poole