Canada-based Cascades has introduced a new alternative to polycoated packaging known as 'Respak' for the food and food services industries.
The recyclable and compostable Respak has been made by using 50% recycled fibres and is said to have a barrier that repels water, oil and grease efficiently.
According to the company, the eco-friendly packaging complies with the main food safety standards that are established by the Food and Drug Administration for packaging, which comes in contact with dry, aqueous as well as fatty acids.
Norampac, the Cascades group specializing in packaging solutions president and CEO Marc-André Dépin said the development of Respak goes hand in hand with the company's values of respect for the environment and innovation.
"As the designers and producers of Respak, we are very pleased to be the first to offer the packaging and food industries, as well as consumers, a green alternative that will significantly reduce the impact of food consumption on waste," Dépin added.
Cascade noted that Respak's environmental impact is 50% less compared to that of the polycoated cardboard in use at present, based on results from a preliminary life cycle assessment.
The polycoated cardboard, which is mostly used around the globe, is not recyclable and about two tons of it are used every minute, noted Cascades.