Flexible packaging company American Packaging Corporation (APC) has announced the commercial launch of a new RE Design for Recycle flexible packaging technology.  

This launch is aimed at the frozen food sector, specifically for products such as frozen fruits and vegetables. 

It is the latest addition to APC's RE sustainable packaging portfolio, which includes Design for Compost, Circular Content, and Renewable Content, besides many Design for Recycle options.  

Aiming to replace the current non-recyclable, multi-material laminate, APC collaborated with produce processors.  

The main aim of this collaboration was to create a recyclable package that would not only maintain production throughputs but also withstand the puncturing challenges posed by the sharp edges of packaged product.  

The result is an all-polyethylene (PE) package that meets these requirements. 

The new package format is a pillow bag with a fin-seal, capable of being produced on both intermittent and continuous motion vertical form fill seal (VFFS) equipment at speeds of up to 90 packages per minute.  

The laminate used in the packaging is designed with an oriented print web, enhancing heat resistance, dimensional stability, and graphic clarity. 

This print web is reverse-printed and adhesively laminated to a sealant film, providing good opacity and lower temperature sealability.  

The flexible packaging structure adheres to the Association of Plastic Recycler's (APR) guidelines for PE films and comes with a How2Recycle pre-qualification letter, ensuring its recyclability. 

Furthermore, the packaging structure can be tailored for applications that demand higher moisture and oxygen barrier properties.  

Brand owners also have the option to include a clear sealant for product visibility.  

The oriented print web can be printed using either flexographic or rotogravure printing methods and can feature patterned or full matte gloss over-lacquer. 

The packaging is designed to handle manufacturing, distribution, and handling. 

APC president Ray Graham said: "Every flexible packaging technology we add to APC's RE portfolio of sustainable packaging and launch in a commercial application is another step towards a more sustainable future for everyone."