Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has recently announced the launch of the “Flex Forward” project, which aims at ensuring the safety and efficiency of recycled polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) films used in food packaging. This collaborative effort involves WUR working alongside 11 industrial partners and focusing on improving the safety standards of these materials for food contact applications.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Addressing New Legislative Pressures
The initiative comes in response to emerging legislative pressures that will likely require the incorporation of more recycled content in plastic packaging. These regulations are expected to significantly impact both the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector and the plastic recycling industry, driving the need for safer and more effective recycling practices.
Evaluating Safety and Performance
The “Flex Forward” project will provide comprehensive data on the suitability, safety, and performance of recycled flexible PE and PP films. Apparently, WUR plans to use their knowledge of plastic performance evaluation with the infrastructure for analysis and identification for both known and unknown food contaminants. This research is critical, since previous studies have raised concerns over the potential presence of DNA-reactive, mutagenic substances in recycled plastics, which could pose significant risks when used in food packaging.
Innovative Recycling Techniques
One of the main exploration areas within the project is the use of solvent-based recycling technologies, which are considered “climate-positive” due to their high plastic-to-plastic yield. This method is particularly effective at removing contaminants such as additives, thereby improving the overall purity of recycled materials.
Impact on the Packaging Industry
Flexible films represent approximately 30 % of the total plastic food packaging market. Currently, recycled PE and PP films are often relegated to low-value applications due to quality concerns. The Flex Forward consortium aims to enhance the quality of these materials, potentially increasing their value and utility in higher-end applications.
Conclusion
The “Flex Forward” project is a pivotal step toward ensuring that recycled content plastics can safely be used in food contact materials, aligning with both regulatory demands and industry sustainability goals. By improving the safety and performance of recycled PE and PP films, this initiative could significantly enhance the value of recycled materials, making them a more attractive option for food packaging while also supporting the circular economy.
