FLEXIBLE PACKAGING
z Mondi ’ s EcoSolutions approach supports Unilever
Aluminium-free paper-based packaging for Colman
Unilever , together with Mondi , a global enterprise in packaging and paper , has developed a new high barrier paper-based packaging material for Unilever ’ s Colman ’ s dry meal maker and sauces range by reducing plastic , increasing paper content , and consequently ensuring recyclability in the existing UK paper waste stream .
By replacing the previous unrecyclable multi-material laminate with recyclable paper packaging , Mondi supports Unilever in its sustainability targets . The aluminium , as well as all unnecessary plastic layers of the previous material , were eliminated . This resulted in a new packaging solution with a paper content of 85 % and an ultra-thin functional plastic layer that seals the packaging and provides barrier protection for the food . Mondi and Unilever ’ s R & D teams identified this layer as the minimum acceptable protection needed to ensure a long shelf life while maintaining high quality and reducing food waste .
Mondi and Unilever closely collaborated throughout the entire development process , including mastering the challenge of limited access to production facilities during the Covid-19 pandemic . Starting with a proof of concept , followed by extensive line trials at both Mondi and Unilever ’ s R & D pilot plants provided the flexibility to quickly prototype and test the unique packaging material before scaling up . This collaborative method goes to the heart of Mondi ’ s EcoSolutions customer-centric approach of working closely with its customers to ensure that the best possible and most sustainable product is created while meeting the customer ’ s requirements , as well as that of its end-user and the environment .
Unilever focuses on the principle of a circular economy and the importance of creating value within it . Two of their key targets are to transform the entire packaging portfolio into technically recyclable , reusable , or biodegradable solutions as well as to halve the amount of plastic used by 2025 , which this new packaging solution addresses .
“ At Colman ’ s , we ’ re big and bold when it comes to our flavors , and we ’ re keen to make equally bold steps when it comes to our sustainability commitments . We are delighted to partner with Mondi to develop this recyclable paper packaging , becoming the first big brand within the category to do so . The new packaging , which uses a paper-base , ensures that shoppers can enjoy the same great tasting product they know and love , and now with the added benefit of being able to recycle the packs ,” says Fikerte Woldegiorgis , Foods Marketing director , Unilever UK & I
Torsten Murra , Global head of Key Accounts Consumer Flexibles , Mondi , adds , “ MAP2030 , Mondi ’ s action plan for the next 10 years to achieve our ambitious 2030 sustainability commitments , focuses on circular driven packaging and paper solutions , created by empowered people , taking action on climate . By working closely with Unilever , we were able to co-create a packaging solution that will deliver on all counts and is recyclable , providing a valuable resource for the circular economy to drive real change towards a more sustainable future .”
Mondi is a global enterprise in packaging and paper , contributing to a better world by making innovative packaging and paper solutions that are sustainable by design . Its business is integrated across the value chain – from managing forests and producing pulp , paper , and plastic films , to developing and manufacturing effective industrial and consumer packaging solutions . Sustainability is at the center of its strategy and intrinsic in the way it does business . It leads the industry with its customer-centric approach , EcoSolutions , where it asks the right questions to find the most sustainable solution . In 2020 , Mondi had revenues of
Mondi and Unilever serve up aluminium-free paper-based packaging for Colman ’ s Meal Makers . ( Photo : Unilever , PR188 )
26 Packaging South Asia 25 August 2021