A new 100% plastic-free paper packaging

"Guaranteeing fresh, high-quality products to customers is a big challenge, but it is not the only one. The environmental problems that we are all facing to protect future generations, also involves the creation of sustainable packaging. Over the years, Policarta/AFC Packaging has developed new technologies that have introduced paper as a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging, which is instead often made of materials that are difficult to recycle and whose dispersion in the environment has irreversible effects," said Arturo Giusti, CEO of Policarta/AFC Packaging.

The "NoW" No Waste Technology, patented by Policarta/AFC Packaging, is currently the most technologically advanced solution on the market. It combines safety, efficiency, quality and sustainability.

Flexible packaging made using NoW technology is classified as plastic-free on the basis of the SUP (Single use plastic) directive in force since 07/03/21.

This is supported by the main certifications accredited at an international scale (ATICELCA Method MC 501 - UNI 11743 Class "A"), valid throughout Europe and, in the United States, and qualify to the Western Michigan University recycling certification. They can have cellulose hydrate windows and are made from raw materials obtained from renewable sources, which are guaranteed by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

Nowadays, words such as sustainability, compostability and recycling are often misused, leaving customers and manufacturers confused about the real impact of end-of-life packaging. Policarta/AFC Packaging has made consistent efforts to certify its products and to make the documentation available at www.showthecertificate.com. NoW makes it possible to pack fresh products, as well as others, by using certified recyclable paper packaging, suitable for commonly used flow-pack packaging machines. The NoW technology paper reels allows to maintain or improve the packaging times of common machines without altering costs.

"Adopting our paper solutions means to improve the shelf life of agri-food products and contribute effectively to reducing food waste. Our paper is a natural and breathable material, and this makes it possible to delay sprouting or greening of packaged potatoes and to avoid the development of condensation that favors the formation of rot and mold in carrots."

These are some of the results that emerged from an in-depth analysis carried out comparing net packaging and paper packaging with NoW technology, conducted by ASTRA - Agenzia per la sperimentazione tecnologica e la ricerca Agroambientale and downloadable at www.showthecertificate.com.

"Choosing NoW means preserving the quality of the products and protecting the environment, considering the real life cycle of the packaging and its real capacity to be recycled. It also means sharing with consumers fundamental values such as environmental sustainability and innovation. More and more consumers are becoming aware and are therefore able to make their purchases based not only on the price and quality of the goods, but also on the social effects and environmental impact of production and the entire life cycle of the product."