Brussels [04/12/2025]

The Advanced Packaging Association (APA), in collaboration with Finnish meat industry companies, is calling attention to the critical role of packaging functionality in achieving sustainability goals under the EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

While PPWR sets ambitious targets for recyclability, it also raises concerns about the future of essential materials such as polyamide (nylon), an indispensable and highly functional component in food packaging.

Polyamide not only plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, extending shelf life, and reducing food waste, but also significantly aids packaging automation and operational efficiency, thanks to its excellent mechanical properties and compatibility with high-speed processing systems. Its removal could lead to unintended environmental consequences, including increased food spoilage and higher carbon footprint.

“Effective packaging is the silent guardian of our food supply and sustainability ambitions,” said Paul Neumann, chairperson of APA. “To enable real progress, we must ensure that innovation in recyclability goes hand-in-hand with the essential functions that keep food safe and reduce waste. Only by integrating both we can deliver solutions that benefit people and the planet.”

Finnish meat industry companies, including leading companies Atria, HKFoods, and Snellman, have been innovating advanced packaging solutions for years, significantly reducing plastic use while maintaining product safety and quality. “Every meal has a long journey from farm to fork. Smart packaging solutions help us protect that journey, making sure food reaches the plate fresh and safe. Minced meat packaging is a good example, where we have been able to reduce plastic use by 70% compared to earlier plastic trays, while still ensuring food safety,” said Jarmo Marttala, Packaging Development Manager at Atria.

Together with APA, they advocate for a regulatory approach that safeguards these advancements.

Watch the joint video to learn why a thin layer of the package can make a big difference.

About the Advanced Packaging Association

The Advanced Packaging Association (APA) was founded in 2024 by key players in the polymer industry who believe that polyamide is essential for enabling a more sustainable circular economy. The association focusses on advanced packaging solutions that combine performance, efficiency, and recyclability. Through awareness, collaboration, and the application of research and technology to real-world challenges, APA is committed to ensure that polyamide and advanced packaging continue to play a crucial role in the transition to sustainable solutions for the packaging industry. Please find more information about APA here: https://advanced-packaging-association.org/

Press contact:

Jani Vuorenpaa, Coordinator, jani@advanced-packaging-association.org or media@advanced-packaging-association.org