Wipak UK is releasing a recyclable paper butter wrap that can be recycled at kerbside within the paper waste stream and has a 68 percent carbon footprint reduction when compared to market standard wraps (aluminium/low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/paper laminate).
The ornamental butter wrap is made from sustainable, FSC-certified paper and is coated with ultrathin natural coatings that offer outstanding oxygen and water vapour barrier qualities, as well as superior grease resistance, according to the manufacturer.
According to Wipak UK’s technological development manager, Keith Gater, most butter wraps in the UK market are composed of parchment paper or grease-resistant paper, which is typically manufactured into composite laminates with aluminium and polyethylene.
Coated parchment papers, although being created from renewable resources, do not foster a circular economy since they are not easily recyclable.
Unlike other butter wraps on the market, which are made of complicated materials, our consumer-friendly paper solution is 100% recyclable once it has been cleaned in the kerbside paper and cardboard waste stream. It also has the appearance and feel of a classic butter wrap, can be fully printed with brand artwork, and is compatible with existing butter wrap machines.
Wipak UK’s recyclable butter wrap has received an A+ grade in recycling tests conducted by the BioComposites Centre at Bangor University after passing shelf-life testing after being packed on automated wrapping lines.
“This categorization is the highest possible grade for paper recycling efficiency, with a pulp recovery rate of at least 98.5 percent,” Gater explained.
“Our wrap also meets UK-set requirements for claiming paper recyclability, which call for a minimum paper composition of 85%.”
Wipak UK’s combi laminator was used to build numerous new product development initiatives, including the butter wrap format, as part of a recent £5m+ ($6.6m) machinery update to improve the packaging supplier’s sustainable product portfolio. Wipak UK is getting closer to its aim of decreasing its carbon impact and being carbon neutral by 2025 thanks to the investment.
“With increasing consumer demand, businesses and retailers must respond quickly with innovative sustainable packaging solutions that threaten existing ways,” Gater added.
“Solutions like Wipak UK’s butter wrap will not only assist to keep brands relevant in an increasingly competitive industry, but they will also help to keep brands relevant.”