Nova Chemicals, Pregis incorporate recycled PE into food packaging solutions

Nova Chemicals Corp., a polyethylene (PE) resin producer based in Calgary, Alberta, has partnered with Pregis, a manufacturer of flexible and protective packaging based in Chicago, to deliver sustainable packaging solutions for food applications that are used in stand-up pouches, fitmented pouches and lay-flat bags.

According to a news release from Nova Chemicals, the company is providing Pregis with its Syndigo rPE-0860-FC resin, which is made of 100 percent postconsumer resin. The company says its resin is a low-carbon solution that is ideally suited for food packaging applications.

“As part of our commitment to circularity, we’re proud to bring our first mechanically recycled food-contact grade to market,” says Alan Schrob, director of mechanical recycling at Nova Chemicals. “We have a long history as a supplier to Pregis and believe that this collaboration will deliver new solutions that support the growing brand owner demand for high quality, food-safe recycled content.”

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Nova Chemicals tells Recycling Today the percentage of Syndigo rPE incorporated into Pregis applications varies and is tailored to each specific packaging.

Through its efforts in lightweighting and advanced film technologies, Pregis focuses on developing circular flexible packaging solutions. Nova Chemicals is focused on applying its food safety and regulatory knowledge to recycled PE markets. By partnering, Nova Chemicals says the two companies have co-developed a high-performing product packaging that explores what it calls an optimal recycled-content incorporation.

Nova Chemicals adds that the two companies have a history of collaboration, working together to develop e-commerce and protective packaging designs. Nova has also supported Pregis' Inspyre brand, where Pregis donates proceeds to Uzima, a charity that provides water filters and clean drinking water to people in need.

“We are excited to work with Nova Chemicals to develop flexible food packaging solutions that deliver on sustainability without compromising performance,” says Jonathan Quinn, director of market development and sustainability at Pregis. “The Nova Chemicals name is synonymous with quality and safety. This food-contact rPE grade is evidence of their thorough approach to both safety and quality. Because of the partnership with Nova, our customers and supply chain partners can have total trust and confidence that we are incorporating the highest quality and safest rPE in the North American market.”

Pregis says it plans to showcase its new stand-up pouches that use Syndigo rPE-0860-FC resin at the Sustainable Packaging Coalition event April 24-27 in Austin, Texas.