Coveris creates fully-recyclable PE film for the Co-op

Coveris has created a fully-recyclable PE film for the own-brand prepared vegetable lines stocked by UK retailer the Co-op.

The new PE film is made from a polyethylene material similar to the plastic found in carrier bags, and Coveris says the film delivers the same protective, functional and shelf-life benefits as existing non-recyclable solutions.

Consumers can recycle the film at carrier bag recycling points, and the film carries a label which says “Recycle with bags at larger stores” to encourage this.

The film itself is tailored to meet specific product needs, with technical performance options including high-barrier, microwaveable and easy-open functions for lap, fin and weld sealed formats.

Coveris already provides sustainable packaging solutions for some of the retailer’s cooked meats, and the Co-op says that the introduction of the film will aid its efforts to make 100% of its own-brand packaging recyclable by 2025.

Iain Ferguson, Co-op environment manager said: “We are delighted to work with Coveris to launch this landmark new recyclable film – a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders is essential if we are to deliver 100% recyclable packaging for UK consumers that also satisfies requirements around shelf life and functionality.”

The PE film has already been introduced to Co-op stores nationwide in the UK.