Classic flexible packaging is made by bonding different materials such as PET, aluminium and PE. That protects the product very well, but the layers can't be separated easily, which makes recycling hard. Mono-material structures were developed to solve this.
What is mono-PE?
In mono-PE structures every layer is polyethylene, so the pack can be processed as a single material in recycling systems that collect and sort PE. A thin EVOH layer can be added to improve the oxygen barrier.
Which products suit it?
Dry foods, snacks, nuts and detergents are usually a good place to start. For very long shelf lives or products that need high-temperature treatment, classic structures may still be the safer choice.
What to watch when switching
- Mono-PE films are more sensitive to heat, so the filling machine's sealing settings may need adjusting.
- Barrier values differ from classic structures, so run shelf-life tests.
- Recycling claims on the pack must follow the rules of the country where it is sold.
Starting with one product and a small batch is the safest route. Tell us about your product and line, and we'll trial a suitable structure together.
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