Walki Experts video: Dispersion coating, recyclable medium-barrier paper

What is dispersion coating on packaging, and how does it work?

Dispersion coating on packaging involves applying a water-based dispersion onto paper, liners or board materials. This coating provides essential barrier properties without compromising the recyclability of the packaging. The dispersion coating forms a thin layer on the surface of the paper, which can be easily removed during the recycling process. This method allows the fibre content to be efficiently repulped and recycled, unlike traditional coatings that may require complex separation processes. Dispersion coating thus enhances the overall sustainability of packaging by facilitating recycling and reducing environmental impact.

How does the Walki®Jazz solution cater to the fast food and takeaway industry?

Walki®Jazz is our first-generation dispersion coating, meticulously designed for fast food and takeaway services by providing superior grease barriers. This innovative coating is ideal for packing foods that are consumed shortly after purchase, such as burgers and fries, ensuring they remain fresh and appealing. The Walki®Jazz material effectively prevents grease from penetrating the packaging, maintaining its structural integrity and clean appearance. Furthermore, consumers can easily dispose of this packaging in the recyclable paper bin, ensuring it is processed efficiently in the recycling stream. This not only enhances the convenience for the end-user but also su pports sustainable waste management practices.

What are the key features and benefits of the Walki®EVO dispersion coating portfolio?

The Walki®EVO portfolio offers a range of barrier levels from low, medium to high for both rigid and flexible fibre-based packaging. Key features include heat sealability and barriers against water vapour, grease, and moisture, along with extended shelf lives. These properties make Walki®EVO suitable for various applications, including both food and non-food packaging. The enhanced recyclability and barrier performance of Walki®EVO ensure that packaging contributes to waste reduction and sustainability.

Can you elaborate on how Walki®EVO Seal is suitable for frozen food packaging?

Walki® EVO Seal is an excellent material for frozen food packaging, including vegetables, seafood, and bakery products. It offers good machinability and can run at high speeds on filling lines, making it efficient for large-scale production. The pouches made from Walki® EVO Seal can be heat-sealed with tight seams, ensuring the contents are well-protected. Multiple studies show that across different consumer groups, there is a growing desire to live more sustainably, and consumers often start by looking for alternatives to reduce plastic usage and choose recyclable packaging options when buying food. Consumers prefer paper-based packaging options, which also provide an attractive shelf presence.

How does Walki cater to the aesthetic and functional needs of brand owners with its dispersion coating packaging, like Walki®EVO Seal?

Walki meets the aesthetic and functional requirements of brand owners by providing customized material solutions. Our selection includes various paper types, from thin to thick, and both bleached and brown options, all engineered for excellent print quality. To promote sustainability, we are able to use also water-based inks and varnishes. Additionally, our recent upgrades to printing technology at our facilities in Poland, Finland, and Germany ensure that our packaging solutions not only perform well but also enhance the visual appeal of products, making them more attractive on retail shelves.

How do Walki’s dispersion solutions align with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR), and what benefits do they offer?

Walki®EVO solutions are perfectly aligned with the EU PPWR by emphasising recyclability and reducing plastic consumption. As the main component is wood fibres, the packaging is primarily from renewable resources and will most often provide a significant reduction in CO2 footprint compared to multilayer plastic laminates. These paper-based solutions ensure easy recycling within established paper waste streams, corresponding mainly to future recycling Classes A and B. This product not only meets regulatory requirements but also helps brand owners lower their EPR fees and packaging taxes by choosing fibre-based materials. Walki® EVO Seal is a viable option to move away from multilayer plastic solutions and gain in terms of CO2 reduction, EPR fees, and consumer preference.