A new generation of CRYOVAC® brand recycle-ready packaging puts sustainability within reach
As new regulations in Europe and the UK create the likelihood of levies for using non-recyclable packaging, the fresh meat industry is under considerable pressure to change, and the stakes are high to get it right.
For decades, meat processors have relied on our high-performance barrier shrink bags and shrinkable rollstock for primary packaging, but today, the fact that these complex, multi-material structures can be difficult to recycle may have you looking for options.
That's why we're pleased to introduce the new, CRYOVAC brand recycle-ready standard and premium presentation shrink bags and shrinkable rollstock, an expansion of our well-known, established portfolio of barrier shrink materials.
First in the industry to be laboratory-certified with global recyclability protocols, these new materials are 100% compatible with LDPE/RIC4 recycling streams and offer an EVOH barrier for enhanced product protection and performance.
For companies or governments currently paying or preparing to pay EPR fees for non-recyclable plastic, a RIC4 certification may provide for a fee reduction versus a classification of RIC7.
* degree of recyclability will vary depending on scope and availability of collection, sortation and recycling programmes.
NOW AVAILABLE IN EUROPE
Responsible Packaging for Fresh Meats and Poultry, Smoked & Processed Meats, Fish, Seafood and Cheese
4 Advantages of our
Recycle-Ready Shrink Bags and Shrinkable Rollstock
Source: Sealed Air
4 Advantages of our
Recycle-Ready Shrink Bags and Shrinkable Rollstock
Source: Sealed Air
Today: Recycle-Ready*...Tomorrow: Recyclable!
Sealed Air takes the position that for us to label a package material or solution as recyclable, it must meet three criteria:
1. Can be collected at roadside or drop-off locations by at least 60% of the local population
2. Can be sorted by the material recovery facility to which it is sent
3. Can be recycled into a commercially viable product
While our new "recycle-ready" shrink bags and rollstock have been laboratory certified to be compatible with LPDE/RIC4 recycling streams, there are very few options available in the world today for collection and sorting of LPDE.
We take the position, that if a packaging material or solution meets only one or two of these criteria but not all three, we designate the packaging material “recycle-ready”, including a disclaimer that states: degree of recyclability will vary depending on scope and availability of collection, sortation and recycling programmes.
As collection and sorting capability for LDPE continues to improve, and as new methods such as advanced/chemical recycling achieve global scale, we know the day will soon come when we can upgrade the claim for our recycle-ready materials to 100% recyclable.
Review the global protocols here:
Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and Plastics Recyclers Europe (PRE).
* degree of recyclability will vary depending on scope and availability of collection, sortation and recycling programmes.
QUICK FACT
Recycled plastic can save up to 80% of the CO2 emissions
associated with the use of virgin plastic.
Desktop vs Lab Certification
When it comes to recyclability claims, plastic producers have two options – desktop/labelling certification and lab test certification. At Sealed Air, we use both, depending on the material, but when it comes to multilayer structures, we choose the lab.
Desktop/Labeling Certification
Basis for Certification
Composition of sample
Criteria for Pass
Based on composition and percentage of known contaminants
Timing for Test
2-6 weeks
Pros
- Fast
- Low cost
- Best choice for monomaterials
Cons
- Non-PE contaminants only allowed at low levels
- Multiple country-level schemes
Lab Test Certification
Basis for Certification
APR/PRE* recycling guidelines for flexible packaging
Criteria for Pass
Extrusion test and physical properties similar to pure PE control
Timing for Test
8-12 weeks
Pros
- Reflect benefits of resin blends
- Best choice for multilayers
- Alignment across regions
Cons
- External labs costly
- Time consuming
Changing Regulations Require Informed Choices
Regulatory changes and the threat of EPR levies can lead any meat processor or retailer to make packaging decisions too quickly, but you need to stay informed and make the change that’s right for you.
The recycling infrastructure for post-consumer flexible plastics is still developing, as are the implementation schemes for regulations amongst the UK and EU member states. Until such time as a collection, sortation and recycling infrastructure is available to a minimum of 60% of the residents of a geographic region, we take the position that any claim stating “100% recyclable” on flexible plastic should be viewed with caution.
In the meantime, when you’re ready to learn more about our new recycle-ready materials, including how they will protect your products and help your sustainability position, contact us by using the form below.
