kp Infinity range delivers recyclable plastic foodservice packs to market

25 Nov 2019 --- Plastic films supplier Klöckner Pentaplast (kp) has launched kp Infinity, a “first to market” recyclable polypropylene packaging for the foodservice and food-to-go sector. kp Infinity is microverable, lightweight, durable, water-resistant and resistant to acids, alkalis and hot oils. kp Infinity creates opportunity for the foodservice sector to meet its sustainability commitments as well as providing a premium solution for the market and consumer convenience, the German supplier says.

The kp Infinity range launched in November and there has already been “huge interest” from distributors and food-to-go outlets, providing them with a “vastly improved sustainable and recyclable answer to their current packaging needs, while being one of the most cost-effective solutions,” the supplier says. The packaging has been successfully trialed and tested through several recycling partners in the UK and Europe.

“It is great to see not only innovation from kp in the development of this range but the rigorous process they have undergone in the material selection to ensure they are doing the right thing. If collected for recycling, this range will be effectively sorted from other plastics for onward reprocessing into new products,” comments Helen Bird, Strategic Engagement Manager for WRAP.

“With so much focus on plastics, packaging and recyclability, I congratulate kp on its ongoing innovations and leadership in this space. We have been pleased to support the development of the kp Infinity packaging range, which I am sure will be a great success. Ten years after it was originally launched, the use of 100 percent recycled PET in kp trays continues to be a great example of creating market demand for recycled plastics,” notes Stuart Foster, CEO for Recoup.kp Infinity is recyclable and recognizes the cost sensitivity in the market, says Adam Barnett, President of the Food Packaging Division for kp.

“Another first from kp as they offer a new fully recyclable packaging solution for food-to-go that will keep food hotter for longer,” adds Barry Turner, Director of Plastics & Flexible Packaging for the British Plastics Federation (BPF).

kp Infinity endorses a clear call to action with a “Recycle me” message embossed on the top of the packs to let consumers know that the package can be recycled. With the added bonus that it is microwaveable while maintaining durability and protection, it opens up to a whole new raft of consumer convenience across the UK for food businesses, particularly those in the food-to-go sector.

According to Andreas Leitner, Head of New Business Development for Borealis Polyolefins added, kp Infinity is “the packaging of the future, perfectly designed for protecting and supplying food in every respect and now for the first time infinitely recyclable.”

“A premium and practical range of food-to-go hot food packaging, kp Infinity is an example of excellence in product innovation because it has been designed to be recyclable in the existing waste management infrastructure. Product design and material innovation will play a critical part in meeting forthcoming environmental legislation in the catering and hospitality sector, and we are committed to bringing the very best packaging solutions from our suppliers to our customers,” says Katie Bradbury, Sustainability and Packaging Innovation Manager for Bunzl Catering Supplies.

“kp has been a long-term partner to food outlets across the UK for 40 years. We have continually supported the industry with products that meet the cost pressures of owning your own small business while maximizing the consumer eating experience. kp Infinity has those credentials at the heart of it and answers the need to enhance the sustainable needs of the modern consumer of food-to-go products. Creating a recyclable product, that provides great heat retention, is heat resistant, moisture resistant and microwave-safe, it also recognizes the cost sensitivity in the market, by providing the low-cost solution to a truly sustainable product. A win-win for our long-term partners,” concludes Adam Barnett, President of the Food Packaging Division for kp.

Edited by Joshua Poole