TekniPlex Consumer Products, a global leader in innovative materials science and manufacturing technologies, will showcase its commitment to sustainability at Pack Expo 2024, taking place from November 3-6 in Chicago. Visitors can find the company at Booth W-21047, where they will present an extensive range of solutions tailored for various applications, including food and drink packaging, along with value-added liners for jars and bottles in the food and nutrition sectors. Additionally, experts will be available to discuss the company’s newly opened U.S. manufacturing plant.
Many solutions featured by TekniPlex Consumer Products at Pack Expo emphasize sustainability without compromising on performance. This aligns with the company’s “Sustainability AND” approach, which has successfully fostered sustainability initiatives across multiple sectors, particularly in food and drink niches such as dairy, protein, eggs, and shelf-stable products.
Recyclable Paper-based Liners
This year, TekniPlex Consumer Products launched a recyclable paper-based liner that is compatible with conventional induction heat sealing equipment and is recyclable wherever paper recycling programs exist. The company’s ProTecSeals® Recyclable IHS Liners are suitable for a diverse range of jars and bottles. They are designed for products like vitamins, supplements, protein powders, peanut butter, and other non-reactive, non-acidic dry goods.
Notably, ProTecSeals® liners are recyclable in the mixed paper stream, having passed a reputable third-party testing protocol for re-pulpability and recyclability. These liners maintain the protective qualities of conventional alternatives by offering moisture and oxygen barriers, leak resistance, contaminant prevention, and shelf-life extension comparable to standard IHS liners. Moreover, printed recycling instructions on the liner can be replaced or supplemented with brand messaging, creating valuable under-the-cap marketing opportunities.
North American Manufacturing Expansion
Among the latest developments from TekniPlex Consumer Products is the opening of a 200,000-square-foot facility dedicated to molded fiber solutions in northwest Ohio, as of October. This facility marks the eighth specialty molded fiber manufacturing plant for TekniPlex Consumer Products and enhances its capacity and capabilities in this rapidly expanding sustainability-driven niche. The plant features innovative technologies, including a proprietary fiber production process that delivers stronger, high-quality products with enhanced protective properties—particularly beneficial in the egg carton sector and various food categories.
The Ohio facility signifies TekniPlex Consumer Products’ commitment to broadening its portfolio in specialty molded fiber and incorporating sustainability-minded materials, especially those featuring significant post-consumer recycled (PCR) content or using more recyclable resins like polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Additionally, in the dairy and shelf-stable segments, the company has supported customers in lightweighting their packaging and shifting from conventional polystyrene to alternative options that include polypropylene, PET, or paper.
Innovations in Protein Processing Trays
At Pack Expo, TekniPlex will also spotlight its breakthroughs in protein processor trays. As part of its expanding GeoPack range of sustainable products, the company has introduced a biodegradable protein tray designed for industrial composting. Endorsed by the Biodegradable Products Institute, this tray is crafted from cellulose-based direct food-contact material and is manufactured in the United States. These new trays are part of a comprehensive strategy to facilitate customers’ transition from traditional foam polystyrene to more sustainable alternatives like PET or foam polypropylene.
Integrated Performance Solutions
TekniPlex Consumer Products also provides a suite of integrated performance solutions aimed at enhancing packaging appearance, functionality, and sustainability. In addition to the aforementioned liner solutions, attendees will see high-quality gaskets designed for peak aerosol performance and durability, along with plastic dip tubes made from post-consumer recycled content—enabling brands to reinforce their sustainability commitments.
To learn more, visit www.tekni-plex.com/consumer.