Industry leaders Berry Global and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company (MGC) have joined forces to develop a recyclable barrier solution for food packaging.

This innovation addresses challenges associated with traditional ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) barriers, offering improved sustainability and performance.

The new solution utilises MXD6, a high-performance barrier resin developed by MGC.

MXD6 boasts recyclability of up to 12% within the polypropylene recycling stream, according to validation by the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR).

This surpasses the limitations of EVOH, which presents challenges for recycling and can degrade or contaminate the recycling process.

“In addition to maintaining food freshness by keeping the air out and flavours in, MXD6 is recyclable - so it has the potential to significantly reduce both food and plastic waste,” said Debra Wilson, material science director for Berry’s Consumer Packaging - North America Division.

“With the APR recognition, brand owners can feel confident this new alternative to EVOH can help support their sustainability goals without sacrificing performance or product protection.”  

“Our company contributes to societal growth and harmony by creating a wide range of value through chemistry,” said Numa Dongo, general manager of MGC America’s Specialty Materials Department.

“Improving recyclability of plastic packaging and extending the shelf life of foods progresses the sustainable development goal of responsible consumption and production.”

MGC provided the MXD6 material while Berry's global reach, sustainability leadership, and innovation expertise were instrumental in developing this new barrier solution.