Sappi Rockwell Solutions Launches a Sustainable, Coated Lidding Film Ahead of the Proposed UK Plastic Packaging Tax

Published: June 07, 2021

Heat seal coating specialist, Sappi Rockwell Solutions has developed its first sustainable, multi-substrate, heat sealing lidding film.

Developed and manufactured in house, Starlid GPE-CL is an extrusion coated lidding film specifically formulated and processed on Sappi Rockwell’s solvent-free coating line.

The Starlid GPE-CL coating can be applied onto any film, including those with post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. The company currently coats up to 60 percent PCR film, which is reportedly compatible with all tray types, including 100 percent rPET trays.

Options for Starlid GPE-CL include Sappi Rockwell’s high-clarity anti-fog for optimised transparency and good oxygen and moisture vapour transmission rate barriers to increase product shelf-life.

Moreover, the Starlid GPE-CL seals to all types of food packaging trays, including PP, paperboard and all PET variants. This could enable manufacturers and brand owners to move away from using multiple film types for different product requirements and into a true mono layer lidding material suitable for all tray types.

“We are committed to helping our customers reduce their impact on the environment through the development of innovative and sustainable packaging solutions,” said Chris Button, head of sales, Sappi Rockwell Solutions. “Starlid GPE-CL will help customers reduce their environmental impact and bring them in line with the UK plastic packaging levy scheduled for April 2022. Using one lidding material for all tray types delivers cost saving opportunities, improves operational efficiencies, and significantly reduces both plastic usage and waste.”

“Starlid GPE-CL provides a strong, peelable seal on all types of tray materials, including paperboard trays which is one of the most rapidly expanding sustainability trends in the food industry today,” he added. “As eco-friendly packaging becomes a higher priority with both brands and consumers, Starlid GPE-CL is a significant development for the food packaging industry.”

Suitable for all types of food products including dairy, convenience, meat, fruit and vegetables. Starlid GPE-CL is reportedly food contact approved and can be used for freezer, chiller, microwave and ovenable applications.

For more information, visit https://www.rockwellsolutions.com.