The main advantages of using plastic to package any kind of product include barrier properties, low weight, strength, flexibility, safety and versatility. Plastic is therefore used in innumerable applications and types of packaging in a wide range of sectors for food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, logistical, chemical and cleaning products. The packaging industry is now facing new challenges in the search for more sustainable solutions based on the circular economy that also comply with legislation.
This workshop, a prelude to MeetingPack2022, will present the most disruptive solutions in barrier packaging through inspiring presentations, round-table discussions and visits to virtual exhibitors.
The REFUCOAT Project has developed innovative, efficient, bioplastic food packaging production processes using renewable materials that are also recyclable and could replace conventional fossil-based raw materials.
In collaboration with companies in the sector, AIMPLAS and ITC are applying eco-design criteria to produce reusable containers, as well as a new recycling system for managing waste when the container reaches the end of its useful life.
In its first year, the European project BIOnTop has achieved good results in its experimental work on copolymers and compounds with customized biodegradability and multifunctional coating solutions with customized properties.
As stated in the basic principle of Regulation 1935/2004 on materials and articles intended to come into contact with food, “any material or article intended to come into contact directly or indirectly with food must be sufficiently inert to preclude substances from being transferred to food