The British Crisp Co. has launched the “first” fully-recyclable paper crisp packet, which can be disposed of in kerbside recycling collections.
The new paper packet, which has been developed in partnership with Evopak, a manufacturer of sustainable paper-based flexible packaging, uses a polymer, Hydropol, developed by Aquapak, instead of conventional plastic.
Tom Lock, CEO of British Snack Company, commented: “Brits consume over eight billion packets of crisps each year, the majority of which are not recyclable and end up in landfill or incinerators – that’s a lot of waste and a huge environmental problem.
“In partnership with Evopak and using exciting new polymer technology, we have created the first fully recyclable crisp packet – something that consumers have been demanding for a long time.”
A very thin layer of vacuum-deposited aluminium keeps the crisps fresh but doesn’t impact the recyclability of the packets, Aquapak said. Hydropol can be recycled, re-pulped, composted and is distinctively compatible with anaerobic digestion, the organisation said.
Today’s launch marks a significant milestone for Aquapak and our Hydropol technology, which can be commercialised at scale.
Aquapak also said Hydropol is non-toxic, marine safe, and will dissolve and subsequently biodegrade if unintentionally released into the natural environment. The packaging does not break down into harmful microplastics and is already being used in products such as reusable, heat-sealable paper mailing bags, Aquapak said.
The packets have been certified as recyclable in standard paper recycling mills by OPRL (on-pack recycling labels). This means the packaging features the green recycle logo and can be disposed of in consumer kerbside collections along with other paper material, unlike other crisp packets.
Mark Lapping, Chief Executive Officer, Aquapak, said: “Today’s launch marks a significant milestone for Aquapak and our Hydropol technology, which can be commercialised at scale.
“This is a huge opportunity for brands and producers who now have a viable, functional and recyclable alternative that enables full fibre recovery in a standard paper recycling process.”
