For its aseptic liquid packaging business, UFlex Limited, India’s leading flexible packaging material solution and polymer science firm, is constructing India’s first U-shaped paper straw production line.
The line will be installed in Sanand, Gujarat, where the company already has an aseptic liquid packaging unit.
The paper straw production line will use fully automated Dutch technology and have a capacity of around 2.4 billion straws per year.
U-Shape paper straws will be offered in two sizes: 145mm and 165mm; they will be affixed to and used for portion packs for juices and other liquids. UFlex paper straws will be food-grade, moisture-resistant, and constructed from 100 percent recyclable, sustainably sourced paper.
“In the wake of prohibitions on the use of single-use plastic coming into force around the world, including the Indian government upholding its decision not to exempt some plastic straws from the impending ban, this move by UFlex is not only significant but also timely,” said Ashwani Kumar Sharma, president and CEO, aseptic liquid packaging business, UFlex Ltd.
“With the introduction of U-shaped paper straws, we are poised to transform the industry’s dynamics.” We’re always searching for new and innovative methods to improve our goods’ environmental performance and provide excellent, convenient, and sustainable packaging options. Our Sanand facility’s installation of the line for ready-to-drink aseptic liquid packaging is a remarkable illustration of our company’s dedication to developing better and safer goods for future generations. Following the successful installation and commissioning, we plan to produce 100 million straws in the first month and 200 million in the following months. We want to make 2.4 billion straws every year. The product’s looks and quality are up to par with international standards.”
Tembo Paper B.V., a Dutch firm, is supplying the machinery and equipment to UFlex-Asepto.
“We are happy to be cooperating with UFlex Asepto to build up India’s first high-volume U-Shape paper straw line,” said Pierre Mousson, managing director of Tembo Paper B.V. A long-term solution is urgently needed as worldwide limitations on single-use plastics change. We are excited to collaborate to promote and implement sustainable solutions by combining our vast expertise and skills. This collaboration would, in the long term, carve out a substantial presence in the Indian market for mutual commercial success.”
“Sustainability is one of the foundation pillars at UFlex, and we are noticing that our aseptic liquid packaging business is continuously evolving towards more environment friendly initiatives,” said Ashok Chaturvedi, chairman and managing director of UFlex Ltd. As a result, we place a major focus on guaranteeing the long-term health of the whole value chain. The paper straws have had a major influence on foreign markets, and we anticipate similar feelings in the Indian market.”
UFlex said in FY2021, that it will double its aseptic liquid packaging capacity in Sanand to 7 billion packs per year, and that the project, which is nearing completion, is presently undergoing trial runs.