Pregis is expanding recyclable barrier films with a metallized polyethylene sealant designed to replace conventional mixed-material packaging. The new film provides protective barrier properties comparable to metallized polypropylene and polyester alternatives while qualifying for store drop-off recycling through How2Recycle. Suitable for coffee, snacks, and pet food packaging, the material can run on existing production equipment without requiring major operational changes. Part of the company's Renew portfolio, the film supports packaging designs that prioritize recyclability alongside product protection.
The development gives manufacturers another way to address sustainability requirements without sacrificing packaging performance. As extended producer responsibility regulations expand across U.S. states, recyclable materials may help brands manage compliance obligations and related fees. Pregis also offers thinner U-Series films that reduce material consumption and associated carbon footprint, creating additional opportunities for businesses to lower packaging waste and production costs.
Image Credit: Pregis
What's Driving This Trend
- Recyclable Barrier Packaging
- Mono-material films with high barrier performance create room for packaging formats that preserve food quality while improving compatibility with recycling systems.
- Compliance-driven Materials
- Expanding producer responsibility rules are increasing demand for packaging innovations that reduce regulatory exposure and support lower end-of-life fees.
- Lightweight Flexible Films
- Thinner film structures are reshaping sustainable packaging economics by lowering material use, transport emissions, and production costs without major equipment changes.
Who This Affects Most
- Food Packaging
- Coffee, snack, and pet food brands can benefit from recyclable flexible formats that balance shelf-life protection with consumer-facing sustainability claims.
- Plastics Manufacturing
- Polyethylene-based barrier technologies open new market pathways for resin converters and film producers focused on recyclable alternatives to mixed-material laminates.
- Retail Sustainability
- Store drop-off recycling compatibility strengthens circular packaging programs by connecting branded products with more accessible recovery infrastructure.
