{"id":5755,"date":"2025-03-07T03:08:53","date_gmt":"2025-03-07T08:08:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.packagingindustrynews.com\/?p=5755"},"modified":"2025-03-07T03:08:53","modified_gmt":"2025-03-07T08:08:53","slug":"upm-and-orkla-suomi-test-paper-wrapper-for-panda-milk-chocolate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.packagingindustrynews.com\/?p=5755","title":{"rendered":"UPM and Orkla Suomi test paper wrapper for panda milk chocolate"},"content":{"rendered":"


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The initiative by UPM Specialty Papers and Orkla Suomi aims to increase the use of renewable materials while maintaining product protection and recyclability. \/ Credit: Royalty-free AI generated<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

A new initiative is underway in Finland to replace plastic packaging with a paper-based alternative for Panda Milk Chocolate.<\/p>\n

UPM Specialty Papers and Orkla Suomi have launched a six-month trial, during which the traditional polypropylene (PP) plastic wrappers will be replaced with a paper wrapper.<\/p>\n

The new packaging is now available in stores across Finland.<\/p>\n

Trial aims to increase use of renewable materials<\/h2>\n

Orkla Suomi is testing the paper-based wrapper as part of its strategy to increase the use of renewable packaging materials while maintaining recyclability.<\/p>\n

The new wrapper is made from UPM Asendo\u2122 Pro 75 g\/m2 barrier paper, which has grease-resistant properties suitable for chocolate. The packaging also features a cold seal lacquer, allowing it to be used on existing flowpack machines typically used for plastic wrappers.<\/p>\n

According to Arja Laitinen, Packaging Developer at Orkla Snacks, the initiative aligns with the company\u2019s sustainability efforts. \u201cWe will pilot this paper-based packaging with Panda Milk Chocolate in spring 2025 to gather insights and experiences from the new solution,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

Recyclable alternative to traditional plastic wrappers<\/h2>\n

The new paper packaging has undergone extensive testing, including shelf-life assessments, to ensure product protection and durability. UPM Asendo Pro is certified for food safety under both European (BfR) and US (FDA) regulations.<\/p>\n

It has also been validated as recyclable in existing fibre recycling streams across Finland and Europe, where 83% of paper and cardboard packaging is currently recycled, according to Eurostat data from 2021.<\/p>\n

UPM Specialty Papers emphasises that this development supports the industry-wide transition towards more sustainable packaging. \u201cChocolate can be a challenging product to package in paper due to its relatively high grease content.<\/p>\n

However, UPM\u2019s expertise and partner network enable us to assist brands like Orkla Suomi in their sustainability goals,\u201d said Kirsi Lahtela, Senior Manager of Product Portfolio Management at UPM Specialty Papers.<\/p>\n

Reducing plastic in food packaging<\/h2>\n

Traditionally, plastic or a paper-plastic laminate has been used to protect chocolate products and extend shelf-life. However, the in-built barrier protection of UPM Asendo Pro eliminates the need for an additional plastic layer.<\/p>\n

The trial will provide key insights into the feasibility of replacing plastic wrappers with paper-based alternatives in confectionery packaging.<\/p>\n

If successful, the initiative could contribute to broader efforts to reduce plastic waste in the food industry while offering consumers a more sustainable packaging option.<\/p>\n

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