Graphic Packaging produces non-PE coated foodservice cups with high repulpability

26 Jul 2021 --- Graphic Packaging International (GPI) is launching a line of non-polyethylene (PE) coated, single-use foodservice cups branded OptiCycle. 

OptiCycle technology provides an alternative to traditional PE and polylactic acid (PLA) coated products.

GPI indicates the solution is the first packaging of its kind to be commercialized by a domestic supplier in North America.

OptiCycle is designed to be more easily recyclable by allowing smooth separation of the liquid barrier coating from the paper.

Recycle-ready
When OptiCycle is repulped, approximately 98 percent of the fiber is recovered. In practice, this means almost the entire cup can be used to make other paper products. Western Michigan University, US, has certified the cup’s recyclability. 

“Paper cups made with renewable fiber are a great on-the-go beverage option for brands and consumers,” says Michael Doss, GPI’s president and CEO.

“OptiCycle’s advanced coating technology is water-based, requires less coating material and increases the amount of fiber that can be recovered when it is recycled.”OptiCycle technology provides an alternative to traditional PE and PLA coated products.

“There is considerable focus on creating products with the future of our planet in mind,” adds Ricardo De Genova, GPI’s SVP for global innovation and new business development.

“Sustainability is at the center of our innovation efforts at Graphic Packaging. With OptiCycle, we are taking another step in the journey for a better planet, enabling customers to achieve their sustainability goals, and helping them feel even better about fiber-based packaging as an alternative to plastics.”

Reduced environmental impact
The development of this technology aligns with GPI’s Vision 2025, leveraging its sustainability profile to generate new packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact.

“We’re excited to introduce our new line of foodservice packaging in support of the move to a more circular economy,” concludes Doss.

Innova Market Insights pinpointed the Fiber-based Frenzy as a key packaging trend for 2021 earlier in the year, documenting the rising sophistication of fiber-based solutions as viable alternatives to single-use plastics.

Innovation in plastic-replacement fiber-based solutions is booming as brands explore plastic waste escape routes and new connections with the enlarging eco-conscious consumer base.

The global market researcher found 72 percent of global consumers recognize paper-based packaging as having exceptional recyclability.

In a similar innovation, Lecta recently unveiled a plastic-free paper drinking cup with an aqueous dispersion layer.

In an alternative approach to plastic waste reduction, McDonald’s recently revealed a reusable coffee cup scheme in partnership with TerraCycle’s reusable packaging service, Loop.

GPI developments
In May, GPI announced it had agreed to acquire AR Packaging, reportedly Europe’s second-largest producer of fiber-based consumer packaging, for approximately US$1.45 billion in cash.

GPI also released fully recyclable paperboard punnets for fruit and vegetables in April and a dual-ovenable paperboard tray in July.

By Joshua Poole