Mondi and Hazeleger Kaas have collaborated to package the cheesemaker's Dutch Maaslander brand in EnvelopeForm, a new, fully-recyclable polypropylene (PP) mono-material packaging solution.
The lightweight solution replaces a previously-used multi-layer plastic compound, and is more environmentally friendly, Mondi said.
Recyclable Cheese Packaging
Most sliced cheese in the Netherlands is still packaged in mixed material film, which is difficult to recycle.
This new packaging has a PP thermoforming top and bottom web, and a PP label instead of a paper label, allow it to be recycled in its entirety.
The solution has been certified as recyclable by the German institute cyclos-HTP.
This latest innovation is another example of Hazeleger's commitment to sustainability over the last two decades, with the group having been certified by a number of institutions for its commitment to operating in a socially responsible way.
Andre Roeterdink, Procurement Manager, Hazeleger Kaas, commented on the launch, "In order for our cheese to stay fresh, the packaging had to have the same level of barrier protection as the previous film, and at a lighter weight."
Roeterdink added that the new packaging will "save 9.2 tonnes of plastic per year."
Sustainable Solution
Global packaging and paper group Mondi said that it places a large emphasis on solutions that are sustainable by design.
Peter Jagt, regional sales manager for consumer flexibles, Mondi Benelux, credited the group's EcoSolutions sustainability approach in developing a suitable solution.
"We knew that we could help Hazeleger find the optimal sustainable solution for their cheese," he said.
Jagt also praised the newly-developed solution, saying "The new mono-material film is recyclable, performs well on their machines and keeps the cheese slices fresh on shelves."
© 2021 European Supermarket Magazine. Article by Conor Farrelly. For more Packaging And Design news, click here. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
