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Contact usIn our latest Wrap-Up … EPR schemes under scrutiny. Targeting problematic plastic formats. Clearer RAM rules. Reuse roadmap for retailers. New packaging scorecard. Recyclability claims impacting purchasing behaviour. And more…
For Starters …
EPR schemes are missing the goals
Zero Waste Europe says most Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems fall short of circular economy goals. Current fees – typically 0.01–0.54% of a product’s retail price – are considered too low to drive meaningful change in packaging design.
The group cites widespread free-riding, poor incentives, and weak oversight as key flaws. It’s calling for structural reform to link EPR fees more directly to recyclability and fund waste prevention and reuse schemes.
MEANWHILE …
New targets in plastic hit list
WRAP has expanded its UK Plastics Pact Elimination List, targeting eight additional problematic plastic formats for removal by .
Items such as non-detectable black plastics (which evade infrared recycling scanners) and flexible multi-material packaging for products like crisps and pet food are set to be phased out by the end of this year.
By , the focus will shift to eliminating flexible multi-material packaging for items such as block cheese, cooked meats, and long-life bread.
These plastics are classified as "problematic" because they are difficult to recycle, pollute, or are unnecessary when viable alternatives exist. Here’s the complete list published by WRAP:
Since the pact's inception in , members have successfully removed 33 billion plastic items from circulation.
Tooling up RAM
PackUK has released an updated revision of the Recycling Assessment Methodology (RAM) technical draft, providing a standardised tool for evaluating packaging recyclability in the UK. The new guidance was released to provide greater clarity about the scheme's implementation.
SHOP TALK …
Millions being tagged
Using digital watermark and UV tag technology, over 100 million tagged items are expected to be scanned as Waitrose works with Polytag to boost traceability and recycling rates.
This is an implementation of what is sometimes referred to as “Holy Grail 2.0” within the industry. Should it be widely adopted, it could provide huge benefits for sorting and recycling within the food industry.
The system provides real-time tracking, and early trials indicate that plastic recycling rates could improve by up to 20%.
Packaging goes back in time
Tesco reintroduced 19 nostalgic products from the s in their original packaging to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Clubcard programme last month. Items such as Wagon Wheels, Rocky Bars, and Patak’s Indian meals were available, with Clubcard holders benefiting from discounted prices.
Mapping the way for supermarkets
A Dutch government-led initiative, “The 'Reuse Roadmap for Supermarkets”, has outlined strategies to expand reusable packaging in retail. The project, involving supermarkets and organisations, highlights the need for standardised systems, consumer incentives, and supportive infrastructure to make reuse viable at scale.
BRAND NEW …
Pots get the all clear
Müller has announced a shift to clear PET pots for its Corner yoghurt range, replacing the existing white plastic that was difficult to recycle. The dairy brand is targeting an average of 30% recycled content in its plastic packaging this year.
Buttons are papered over
Chocolate producer Gnaw is trialling a 100% recyclable paper wrapper for its chocolate buttons range, made without polyethylene or microplastics. The EvoPak RCM material is fully kerbside recyclable or can be disposed of through paper banks.
Material change for sweets
Confectionery brands are increasingly adopting recyclable and compostable packaging materials in response to consumer expectations and EU regulations. Companies like Skittles and Smarties have transitioned to paper-based wrappers, while Nestlé's new travel-exclusive range features recyclable pouches.
SUSTAINABLE TOPICS …
Cheap virgin hits targets
A significant price spread – approaching €600 per tonne – between recycled PET (rPET) and virgin PET is reported to be prompting some brands to reduce rPET usage to minimum levels required by the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Freely negotiated food-grade rPET prices in northwest Europe range between € and € per tonne, while virgin PET remains considerably cheaper. Market participants report that some brands are revising or delaying earlier rPET content targets set at the start of the s.
Unravelling the EU rules
An industry guide to the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has been published by the bioplastics firm FKuR.
The resource explains key requirements of the rules that take effect in August , including mandatory recyclability, minimum recycled content, and phased material restrictions.
Knowing the score
The first complete version of the UP Scorecard has been released. It is a free, science-based tool for assessing the environmental and health impacts of food packaging.
Developed by the SUM’D coalition, the scorecard includes new materials, container types, and an expanded list of chemicals of concern. Users can now benchmark packaging portfolios and model impacts in Ecoville, a virtual sustainable city.
Rules of separation
Most workplaces in England must now separate key recyclable waste streams, including dry materials and food waste. The Simpler Recycling regulations are intended to standardise recycling and reduce landfill. Micro-firms have until to comply.
Claims count with consumers
Consumer research has revealed that 71% of shoppers understand “made with recycled materials” claims, more than carbon footprint metrics. Amcor’s European study found that recyclability claims have a greater impact on purchasing behaviour.
Punnets go by the board
Italian packaging manufacturer Frutmac is introducing a range of 100% recyclable cardboard trays and punnets for the UK food industry. Designed for fresh produce and baked goods, the packaging is made from materials such as corrugated board and grass paper and can be customised with features including PET coatings, lids, and bespoke printing.
Going bananas for loose fruit ‘n’ veg
Most UK adults would rather buy loose fruit and veg, with 78% backing unpackaged options to cut food waste and buy only what they need, according to a new survey. Bananas were the top choice, especially among older shoppers.
Investors call the shots
US shareholders are increasing pressure on brands such as PepsiCo and Kraft Heinz to cut hard-to-recycle plastics and improve transparency. Coca-Cola and Starbucks have responded with new commitments on reuse and recyclability.
Recycling gets the nod
UFlex has secured FDA approval to use recycled polyethylene (rPE) in food packaging. Two new recycling lines at its Noida site will process 39,600 tonnes of plastic waste annually.
IN TRAYS …
Fast and flexible
Proseal has launched the XTRs tray sealer to replace its GTR model. The machine delivers faster sealing and greater flexibility across tray formats.
Quick and compact
Packaging Automation has introduced the Rev5 tray sealer range for compact, high-speed production lines. The system includes energy-saving features and auto tool change.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY …
From the KM team … protecting, presenting, and preserving your products.
Want more information on lidding film? Feel free to contact us.
In our latest Wrap-Up … EPR schemes under scrutiny. Targeting problematic plastic formats. Clearer RAM rules. Reuse roadmap for retailers. New packaging scorecard. Recyclability claims impacting purchasing behaviour. And more…
For Starters …
EPR schemes are missing the goals
Zero Waste Europe says most Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems fall short of circular economy goals. Current fees – typically 0.01–0.54% of a product’s retail price – are considered too low to drive meaningful change in packaging design.
The group cites widespread free-riding, poor incentives, and weak oversight as key flaws. It’s calling for structural reform to link EPR fees more directly to recyclability and fund waste prevention and reuse schemes.
MEANWHILE …
New targets in plastic hit list
WRAP has expanded its UK Plastics Pact Elimination List, targeting eight additional problematic plastic formats for removal by .
Items such as non-detectable black plastics (which evade infrared recycling scanners) and flexible multi-material packaging for products like crisps and pet food are set to be phased out by the end of this year.
By , the focus will shift to eliminating flexible multi-material packaging for items such as block cheese, cooked meats, and long-life bread.
These plastics are classified as "problematic" because they are difficult to recycle, pollute, or are unnecessary when viable alternatives exist. Here’s the complete list published by WRAP:
Since the pact's inception in , members have successfully removed 33 billion plastic items from circulation.
Tooling up RAM
PackUK has released an updated revision of the Recycling Assessment Methodology (RAM) technical draft, providing a standardised tool for evaluating packaging recyclability in the UK. The new guidance was released to provide greater clarity about the scheme's implementation.
SHOP TALK …
Millions being tagged
Using digital watermark and UV tag technology, over 100 million tagged items are expected to be scanned as Waitrose works with Polytag to boost traceability and recycling rates.
This is an implementation of what is sometimes referred to as “Holy Grail 2.0” within the industry. Should it be widely adopted, it could provide huge benefits for sorting and recycling within the food industry.
The system provides real-time tracking, and early trials indicate that plastic recycling rates could improve by up to 20%.
Packaging goes back in time
Tesco reintroduced 19 nostalgic products from the s in their original packaging to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Clubcard programme last month. Items such as Wagon Wheels, Rocky Bars, and Patak’s Indian meals were available, with Clubcard holders benefiting from discounted prices.
Mapping the way for supermarkets
A Dutch government-led initiative, “The 'Reuse Roadmap for Supermarkets”, has outlined strategies to expand reusable packaging in retail. The project, involving supermarkets and organisations, highlights the need for standardised systems, consumer incentives, and supportive infrastructure to make reuse viable at scale.
BRAND NEW …
Pots get the all clear
Müller has announced a shift to clear PET pots for its Corner yoghurt range, replacing the existing white plastic that was difficult to recycle. The dairy brand is targeting an average of 30% recycled content in its plastic packaging this year.
Buttons are papered over
Chocolate producer Gnaw is trialling a 100% recyclable paper wrapper for its chocolate buttons range, made without polyethylene or microplastics. The EvoPak RCM material is fully kerbside recyclable or can be disposed of through paper banks.
Material change for sweets
Confectionery brands are increasingly adopting recyclable and compostable packaging materials in response to consumer expectations and EU regulations. Companies like Skittles and Smarties have transitioned to paper-based wrappers, while Nestlé's new travel-exclusive range features recyclable pouches.
SUSTAINABLE TOPICS …
Cheap virgin hits targets
A significant price spread – approaching €600 per tonne – between recycled PET (rPET) and virgin PET is reported to be prompting some brands to reduce rPET usage to minimum levels required by the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive.
Freely negotiated food-grade rPET prices in northwest Europe range between € and € per tonne, while virgin PET remains considerably cheaper. Market participants report that some brands are revising or delaying earlier rPET content targets set at the start of the s.
Unravelling the EU rules
An industry guide to the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has been published by the bioplastics firm FKuR.
The resource explains key requirements of the rules that take effect in August , including mandatory recyclability, minimum recycled content, and phased material restrictions.
Knowing the score
The first complete version of the UP Scorecard has been released. It is a free, science-based tool for assessing the environmental and health impacts of food packaging.
Developed by the SUM’D coalition, the scorecard includes new materials, container types, and an expanded list of chemicals of concern. Users can now benchmark packaging portfolios and model impacts in Ecoville, a virtual sustainable city.
Rules of separation
Most workplaces in England must now separate key recyclable waste streams, including dry materials and food waste. The Simpler Recycling regulations are intended to standardise recycling and reduce landfill. Micro-firms have until to comply.
Claims count with consumers
Consumer research has revealed that 71% of shoppers understand “made with recycled materials” claims, more than carbon footprint metrics. Amcor’s European study found that recyclability claims have a greater impact on purchasing behaviour.
Punnets go by the board
Italian packaging manufacturer Frutmac is introducing a range of 100% recyclable cardboard trays and punnets for the UK food industry. Designed for fresh produce and baked goods, the packaging is made from materials such as corrugated board and grass paper and can be customised with features including PET coatings, lids, and bespoke printing.
Going bananas for loose fruit ‘n’ veg
Most UK adults would rather buy loose fruit and veg, with 78% backing unpackaged options to cut food waste and buy only what they need, according to a new survey. Bananas were the top choice, especially among older shoppers.
Investors call the shots
US shareholders are increasing pressure on brands such as PepsiCo and Kraft Heinz to cut hard-to-recycle plastics and improve transparency. Coca-Cola and Starbucks have responded with new commitments on reuse and recyclability.
Recycling gets the nod
UFlex has secured FDA approval to use recycled polyethylene (rPE) in food packaging. Two new recycling lines at its Noida site will process 39,600 tonnes of plastic waste annually.
IN TRAYS …
Fast and flexible
Proseal has launched the XTRs tray sealer to replace its GTR model. The machine delivers faster sealing and greater flexibility across tray formats.
Quick and compact
Packaging Automation has introduced the Rev5 tray sealer range for compact, high-speed production lines. The system includes energy-saving features and auto tool change.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY …
From the KM team … protecting, presenting, and preserving your products.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of pet lidding film. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.