Orkla Suomi and UPM trial experimental paper package for Panda Milk Chocolate
A novel paper wrapper for Panda Milk Chocolate Bars is being piloted by Orkla Suomi and UPM Speciality Papers. The new wrappers will take the place of the conventional PP plastic wrappers for the duration of a six-month test programme. Stores all around Finland now carry the milk chocolate bars in the updated packaging.
“At Orkla Finland, our goal is to make life better with local brands that bring joy and represent responsible choices. Our products combine tradition, innovation and responsibility in the best possible way. A good example of our ongoing efforts to replace fossil materials with renewable alternatives is the new paper-based chocolate bar packaging, which has been developed in collaboration with UPM and printing house Walki Westpak. In spring 2025, we will pilot paper-based packaging in Panda Milk Chocolate to gather experience with the new solution,” says Arja Laitinen, packaging developer at Orkla Snacks.
The new wrapper for Panda Milk Chocolate Bar is based on UPM Asendo TM Pro 75 g/m2 barrier paper, which has the grease resistance properties suitable for Panda Milk Chocolate. Cold seal varnish applied to the sealing areas enables the paper-based packaging to be sealed on Orkla Finland’s existing flowpack packaging machines, which are normally used for packaging products in plastic. UPM Asendo Pro is certified for food safety (BfR, FDA), and the new packaging solution has undergone extensive testing, including shelf life tests.
Orkla Finland wanted to find a paper-based packaging solution to support its goal of increasing the share of renewable packaging materials, without compromising on recyclability. UPM sources fibres only from sustainably managed forests, where forest regeneration is ensured. All UPM packaging papers are recyclable, including UPM Asendo Pro, which is validated for recycling (PTS method RH 021/97, category II). In Europe, 83% of paper and board packaging is recycled (Eurostat, 2021).
“Chocolate can be a challenging product to package in paper due to its relatively high fat content. However, UPM has the robust product portfolio, extensive experience and partner network needed to transition to paper-based, recyclable packaging. This is why we are able to help processors and brand owners, such as Orkla Suomi, with their sustainability goals in packaging and accelerate the introduction of new packaging solutions to the market,” says Kirsi Lahtela, senior manager, product portfolio management, UPM Specialty Papers.
Traditionally, plastic or paper-plastic laminates have been used in packaging to ensure shelf life, protect food and improve grease resistance. Thanks to the barrier layer of UPM Asendo Pro packaging paper, an additional plastic layer is not needed.
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