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Cascades launches alternative to polycoated packaging

Cascades says its new packaging board is “the ecological answer to the environmental challenge of polycoated packaging products.” Designed primarily for the food and food services industries, Respak is recyclable and compostable, without compromising on the performance and durability characteristic of traditional polycoated packaging. Respak is made from 50% recycled fibres.

Although polycoated cardboard is well known for its resistance, it is not recyclable, says Cascades. Respak has a cutting-edge, unique barrier that is said to repel water, oil and grease just as efficiently as ordinary polycoated cardboard.

“As the designers and producers of Respak, we are very pleased to be the first to offer the packaging and food industries, as well as consumers, a green alternative that will significantly reduce the impact of food consumption on waste,” comments Marc-André Dépin, president and CEO of Norampac, the Cascades subsidiary specializing in packaging solutions.

Based on results from a preliminary life cycle assessment, Respak’s environmental impact is 50% less than that of the polycoated cardboard currently in use.

Respak complies with the main food safety standards, including those established by the Food and Drug Administration for packaging that comes in contact with dry, aqueous and fatty foods. The packaging material employs a water-based coating without fluorochemicals. It is also elemental chlorine free (ECF) and FSC®-certified.