The recyclable film is high-barrier, microwaveable and easy-open

 

In partnership with the Co-op and Freshtime, Coveris has launched a fully recyclable PE film that delivers the same protective, functional and shelf life benefits as existing non-recyclable solutions, supporting the packaging manufacturer’s pledge to deliver 100% recyclable packaging by 2025.

The Co-op is now closer to achieving its 2023 target with the launch of the new recyclable PE film across prepared vegetable lines.

The film is made from polyethylene material very similar to the plastic found in carrier bags which is easily recycled today in the UK in the same way that you would recycle a carrier bag in larger stores. The packs will also carry the OPRL ‘Recycle with bags at larger stores’ label.

Manufactured at Coveris’ Winsford facility, the film is high-barrier, microwaveable and features easy-open functions for lap, fin and weld sealed formats. The development comes as part of a continued investment strategy at the site, scaling up capacity to manage increased demand.

The company has also worked collaboratively with the Co-op to deliver other recyclable solutions including a multi-layer PE film for cooked meats which enables over 90% of pack weight to now be recycled in the UK.

Iain Ferguson, Co-op environment manager, commented, ‘We are delighted to launch this landmark new recyclable film – a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders is essential if we are to deliver 100% recyclable packaging for UK consumers that also satisfies requirements around shelf life and functionality.’

The film is available across a range of Freshtime produced prepared vegetable lines in stores nationwide.