- UPM, Michelman and BOBST developed two validated paper-based packaging concepts aligned with the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive, designed for industrial-scale production and compatibility with existing packaging lines.
- Concept 1 targets tea bags, oatmeal and sugar stick-packs with bio-based coatings providing moisture and mineral-oil barriers plus a wide heat-seal window; coatings are OK Bio-based Class 5, components and UPM base paper are home-compostable and the structure is certified recyclable (Cepi/4evergreen v2).
- Concept 2 offers improved oxygen barrier for single-pack cookies and chocolate to enable lower coat weights and material efficiency; coatings are OK Bio-based Class 5, base paper certified home-compostable (NF T51-800, AS 5810) and the structure is Cepi/4evergreen v2 recyclable, with sample structures to be shown at Interpack 2026.
Partnership and objective
UPM Specialty Materials, Michelman and BOBST jointly developed two validated paper-based packaging concepts to meet EU packaging rules such as the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD), combining fiber substrates, bio-based coatings and converting know-how to deliver barrier performance and heat-sealability suited for industrial production.
Production and implementation
The collaboration accounted for process requirements and runnability so converters can implement the solutions on existing lines without major equipment changes, aiming for stable performance and production efficiency at scale.
Solution concepts
Concept 1 targets applications like tea bags, oatmeal and sugar stick-packs, offering moisture and mineral-oil barriers plus a wide heat-seal window; Concept 2 targets single‑pack cookies and chocolate with improved oxygen barrier to enable lower coat weights and material efficiency.
Certifications and end‑of‑life
Michelman coatings are OK Bio‑based Class 5 (TÜV Austria); components are reported home‑compostable by suppliers; UPM base papers carry home‑compostability certifications (NF T51‑800:2015 and AS 5810:2010 where stated); both structures are certified recyclable under Cepi/4evergreen v2 and Michelman coatings are noted SUPD‑compliant (PTS; Directive (EU) 2019/904).
Samples and presentation
Sample structures will be shown at Interpack 2026 (UPM stand Hall 8A F29; Michelman stand Hall 8A B25) and the partners present “Simplifying Adoption of Sustainable Packaging for Brands” on May 11 at 11:00 on the SPOTLIGHT Forum stage (Entrance North B).
