UK-based Paint Research Association (PRA) has developed an eco-friendly food packaging coating product, known as PlantPack, which can be an alternative to coatings based on petrochemicals.
PlantPack, which has been developed from seaweed extracts and starch, can be applied to paper and cardboard as a spray,
PRA director Ian Claris said that PlantPack is a real breakthrough for packing technology as it means at last there is a cost effective, sustainable alternative to petroleum derived coatings products.
"And because it's a biodegradable product, it can be composted and recycled easily. So it's better for the environment and performs at least as well as the existing products. We expect there to be a big demand for it from day one," Claris added.
Food packaging coatings are used on paper wraps, cartons and cardboard. They offer physical barriers which protect food products in the packaging container during storage and transportation.
PRA is a surface coatings advisor and it aims to connect the global surface coatings community throughout the supply chain by providing independent knowledge based services in support of innovation and growth of its members.
