Multi-layer flexible packaging that sandwiches high density film between plastic layers does the best job of protecting the freshness of tea, but it is also the most difficult combination to recycle.
Harney & Sons Fine Tea found a solution to this dilemma by partnering with a team from TC Transcontinental Packaging, Dow Packaging and Charter NEX Films, to introduce the first 100% recyclable EVOH barrier pouch. The two-layer polypropylene is light and a good medium for a colorful marketing message.
Todd Addison, vice president, BusinessDevelopment at TCTranscontinental Packaging said “we salute Harney & Sons for drivingthis important sustainable initiative. Our collaboration was the perfect matchas sustainability and innovation run deep in our organization, both in ouroperations and our partnerships. This shared core value and collaborativemindset fueled our sustainable design process and resulted in a product worthyof bearing the Harney & Sons name.”
The co-extruded packagingwith an EVOH Poly(Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol) layer provides an outstanding barrier to gasses,organic vapors and moisture, preventing deterioration of the product andextending its shelf life. The interior laminate won’t weaken fromexposure to natural oils that give tea leaves and blends their flavor. EVOH also enhances seal strength and increasesdurability. The polypropylene exterior layers are easily printed to market thetea.
The challenge from asustainability perspective is that pouches of this type are not easily brokendown and recycled, therefore hindering its reuse and contribution to positiveenvironmental change. Dow’s Retain resin technology provided the single-streamrecycling solution, explains Addison.
Marketing directorEmeric Harney said “Harney & Sons has always desired to use more friendly materialsfor our planet. Since 2006 we’ve been a member of 1% for the Planet, and ourgoal is to move toward more recyclable and compostable components in ourpackaging.” Contributions total $3.5 million during that period.
Harney connected withthe Montreal-based Transcontinental team last year. Harney wanted a lighter two-layerfilm that did not sacrifice shelf life. The film was downgaugedfrom the original three-ply structure used in the previous package. Prototypes led to the introduction of the newpouches in November 2018.
The pouches are purchased die-cut and are hand-packed with tea at retaillocations. The half-pound pouch replaces the existing half-pound tin used inHarney & Sons off-the-shelf consumer stores, but the successful pilot andlaunch promises to lead to other package applications, perhaps in foodservice.
Harney & Sonspackages more than 300 teas for distribution in grocery, mass market andconvenience outlets worldwide. Transcontinental operates 28 production plantsin six countries.
Source: TC Transcontinental Packaging, GreenerPackage, BrandPackaging