Compostable coffee packaging solution

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand -- Innovia Films’ compostable, cellulose-based material, NatureFlex, is helping a New Zealand coffee roaster meet its commitment to being socially and environmentally responsible.

Caffe Prima, based in Christchurch, has chosen to use 'Econic' coffee bags.  The bags were specifically developed by New Zealand converter, Convex Plastics, using NatureFlex renewable and compostable films in their construction.

“Coffee is a very demanding product to package because maintaining freshness and taste is absolutely paramount.  Packs have to be puncture and impact resistant and offer high barrier and good seal integrity to keep oxygen out and aroma in.  Coupled with this, Caffe Prima, was looking for a solution that was kind to the environment.  NatureFlex ticked all the boxes as far as we were concerned,” said Andrew Sheerin, technical manager, Convex Plastics.

A laminate construction was produced using three flexible films that are certified compostable and renewable -- a reverse printed clear NatureFlex / High-Barrier Metallised NatureFlex / Starch based biopolymer. This was an obvious solution for use in this Caffe Prima application as the film begins life as a natural product – wood - and breaks down at the end of its lifecycle in a home compost bin (or industrial compost environment) within a matter of weeks.

“Achieving success with partners such as Convex means that our NatureFlex films are well positioned to provide solutions to converters and brand owners. Especially those seeking to meet consumer demand for packaging made from renewable resources,” said Robin Dearnley, Australia and New Zealand sales manager for Innovia Films.