Biofilms producer Innovia Films has launched its first bioriented polypropylene (BOPP) film, Propafilm RCU, which is proven to provide up to 1.5 years protection from mineral oil migration.
This new innovation is the result of proactive investigation into the mineral oil hydrocarbon (MOH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbon (MOAH) barrier protection offered by the existing films.
The company developed the film after earlier studies found that foods were being contaminated by migration of mineral oil from paper-board packaging.
The project involved the evaluation of films with multiple laydowns, increased coat weights and one side/two side variations.
Innovia claims that the mineral oil residue traces in food are thought to develop due to their migration from the printing inks present both on the packaging surface and in recycled newspapers, used in the production of cardboard packaging.
These can also migrate and be deposited on dried foods packaged in the box, such as pasta, rice, breakfast cereals and biscuits at room temperature.
Innovia Films Packaging & Sustainability marketing manager Andy Sweetman said: "It is exciting to be able to offer the market a cost effective versatile film that ensures proven protection for dried foods. It is printable and can be used on a range of machines, including vertical and horizontal form-fill-seal (VFFS/HFFS).
"Propafilm RCU is ideal for pre-made bags and lamination to other films. This BOPP film offers the market a complimentary alternative to our NatureFlex film that provides up to five years protection. It means we have a product to meet a wide range of shelf life requirements."
The new product is claimed to offer superior optical properties, a low sealing threshold and a broader sealing range which will offer better packaging facilities for products including biscuits, bakery, confectionery, dried foods, tea and cereals, among others.
Image: The film's low sealing threshold and a broader sealing range makes it ideal for use in a variety of markets. Photo: courtesy of Innovia.
