FachPack 2025: Sappi introduces high-barrier papers for primary packaging

Sappi Europe has launched high-barrier papers Guard Pro OHS and Guard Pro OMH, an alternative to plastic and multilayer foils for manufacturing lines. Sappi will showcase the two recyclable monomaterial papers at FachPack 2025 in Nuremberg, Germany.

At the event, September 23–25, Sappi will present the new solutions for snacks, dry foods, ice cream flow wrap, hygiene products, and children’s items. The papers are engineered to help brands meet the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.

Filip van Ranst, sales director at Sappi, says: “With Guard Pro OHS and Guard Pro OMH, we’re giving the market more flexibility and choice when selecting recyclable, high-barrier papers. These products help brands meet sustainability goals without compromising performance or production efficiency.”

“From sealing technologies to barrier performance, we’re offering practical, paper-based solutions that meet real-world production needs. These additions let our customers design packaging that’s functional, efficient, and ready for recycling — without compromise.”

Functional materials

Guard Pro OHS is heat-sealable and can be used for flow-wraps, sachets, and pouches. It offers “strong protection” against oxygen, water vapor, grease, and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons.

It is said to extend shelf life, preserve aroma and product quality, and protect contents from contamination. The paper has improved mechanical properties, which result in better runnability on packaging machines.

The Guard Pro OHS comes in two finishes: natural and gloss. It can be used for direct food contact and complies with toy safety standards. 

The Guard Pro OMH offers similar barrier properties for cold-seal applications. According to Sappi, the paper’s smooth surface provides “excellent conversion results in metallization, making it ideal for metal deposition and further conversion to ultra-high barrier applications.” It comes in an uncoated natural version and a glossy version.