In a remarkable step forward for the sustainability-driven food and drink packaging design in the European fresh protein market, Klöckner Pentaplast (kp) has introduced a new version of kp Elite®, its innovative modified atmosphere (MAP) tray designed from 100% recycled PET (rPET), establishing a fully closed loop packaging system for the industry.
At the heart of this new offering, kp Elite® is the only fully recyclable, lightweight, modified atmosphere mono-material packaging tray to be certified 100% recyclable* by cross-industry initiative RecyClass. This makes kp Elite® the perfect fit for seamless integration into existing PET recycling systems, setting a new standard for end-to-end circularity in protein packaging.
This introduction marks great potential for sustainability in the protein sector, as kp Elite® can be used alongside the innovative kp Zapora® padless tray and the certified recyclable kp FlexiLid® EH 145 R barrier lidding film, creating a fully recyclable, case-ready MAP solution from one supplier.
Cecilia Guardado, Marketing Director, Trays at kp, stated: “By communicating kp Elite®’s closed loop credentials, we’re aiming to drive the fresh protein market further than ever before. Packaging circularity is one of the biggest challenges in the protein market, but when combined with our kp Tray2Tray® initiative, kp Elite® takes a vital step forward in reducing waste and promoting a more resource-efficient protein packaging ecosystem.”
Continuing the sustainability commitment, she added: “Part of our kp ‘Investing in Better’ sustainability strategy is that we want to make 100% of our packaging solutions recyclable by the end of 2025, and kp Elite® is another crucial step in achieving that. With our kp Zapora® padless tray technology, we’re able to enhance the consumer experience and address multiple needs simultaneously. We’ve listened to both our customers and the consumer to create a solution that can do it all.”
Enhancing efficiency in the processing and packing sector, kp Elite® MAP is designed to seal through contamination, reducing the need for rework and repacking and requiring a lower sealing time and temperature. For retailers and consumers, kp Elite® offers a peelable seal, exceptional clarity, and extended shelf life to enhance product appeal.
Cecilia elaborated: “We’re on a mission to prove that sustainability and performance can coexist without compromise. Combined with kp Zapora® and kp Tray2Tray®, kp Elite® is a clear example of our commitment to efficiency, performance, and sustainability, particularly in light of the upcoming Plastics Packaging Waste Regulations, which mandate the use of post-consumer recyclate (PCR) in packaging. There are huge benefits, not just for producers, packers and distributors, but also for consumers who value its ease of use and clarity.”
She also emphasized: “We work to an ethos of ‘Packaging with integrity’, and our values are made clear through everything we do. kp Elite® is a prime example of this in action. With this relaunch, we are challenging the conventional choice of Polypropylene (PP) trays for protein packaging and setting an example for a more sustainable, high-performance packaging industry.”
To learn more about kp Elite®, the complementary technologies available and the comprehensive kp range of packaging solutions, please visit https://bit.ly/49vgHLS