UPM Specialty Papers boosts high-barrier fiber packaging with new compostable kraft paper

27 Jun 2022 --- UPM Specialty Papers has introduced a recyclable and compostable kraft paper for coating bases lamination, single packs, bags and wraps. The highly versatile paper – branded Solide Lucent – enables brand owners to reduce fossil-based or non-recyclable materials and increase usage of materials from renewable sources in their packaging.

“Together with customers and partners, we can develop truly sustainable medium and high barrier packaging solutions, matching customer needs in a wide range of food and non-food applications,” says Mika Uusikartano, senior manager for product portfolio management at UPM Specialty Papers.

“Thanks to its outstanding [environmental] sustainability credentials, this paper is a safe and smart choice for converters and brand owners looking to co-create new products with us. The target is also to reduce value chain recycling fees in the long run,” adds Tommi Heinonen, head of sales at UPM Specialty Papers.

Multipurpose packaging paper
The natural white Solide Lucent paper has a unique look and feel, offering brands optimal print results with both flexo and rotogravure printing. Moreover, the paper boasts “excellent” strength while offering “vast possibilities” for further converting and co-creating of premium packaging products.

In addition to Solide Lucent’s existing basis weights, UPM has added three new, higher basis weights to the offering. “We are always listening to our customers’ wishes, and there has been a strong demand for higher basis weights of UPM Solide Lucent,” explains Heinonen. Lower basis weights have the flexibility for smaller pack sizes and higher basis weights offer rigidity and sturdiness where it is needed.

“Brand owners choose materials with the functional properties, economics and consumer behavior in mind. Basis weight requirements depend on end uses, functional needs, and market messages,” he adds.

Key features
Solide Lucent is repulpable and designed to be recycled in existing fiber recycling streams. It is also compostable in accordance with the EN13432 standard.

The paper contains no optical brighteners and is safe for food, according to FDA and BFR certifications. It is available with PEFC and FSC certificates.

In addition to existing basis weights of 45 g/m² and 62 g/m², UPM has added three new, higher basis weights to the offering with the launch of 72, 78, and 90 g/m².

Edited by Joshua Poole