NOVA Chemicals is partnering with packaging manufacturer Pregis to bring recycled polyethylene (rPE) into food-contact applications. Pregis, a leader in flexible and protective packaging solutions, will use SYNDIGO™ rPE-0860-FC resin in stand-up pouches (SUPs), fitmented pouches, and lay-flat bags. “We have a long history as a supplier to Pregis and believe that this collaboration will deliver new solutions that support the growing brand owner demand for high quality, food-safe recycled content,” said Alan Schrob, Director of Mechanical Recycling at NOVA Chemicals.
The rPE, which is the first mechanically recycled food-contact resin available commercially, offers a low-carbon solution that maintains the performance required for food packaging. NOVA Chemicals researchers have applied their food safety and regulatory knowledge to go beyond the FDA-LNO (letter of non-objection) and demonstrate their capability to create a consistent, high-quality rPE suitable for food packaging. Leveraging state-of-the-art production technology, finished products made with the rPE show excellent printability and clarity characteristics.
Working with Pregis, the companies have developed product packaging that incorporates the optimal amount of recycled content. Pregis has long been an innovator in the circular economy for plastics through their work in lightweighting and advanced film technologies. The company prioritizes sustainable processes and has invested in custom equipment and the development of technical resources to create circular flexible packaging solutions for the market.
The partnership between NOVA Chemicals and Pregis offers brand owners and retailers a safe and trusted option for incorporating rPE into a new market segment. “The NOVA Chemicals name is synonymous with quality and safety. This food contact rPE grade is evidence of their thorough approach to both safety and quality. Because of the partnership with NOVA our customers and supply chain partners can have total trust and confidence that we are incorporating the highest quality and safest rPE in the North American market,” said Jonathan Quinn, Director of Market Development and Sustainability at Pregis.
NOVA Chemicals and Pregis will continue to develop the next generation of packaging solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers. The companies see this collaboration as an important step in enabling customers to directly contribute to the plastics circular economy and reduce their environmental footprint.