Finnish food-packaging producer Huhtamaki has developed a recyclable single-coated predominately paper pot for dairy products.
The firm said its ProDairy solution had less than 10 per cent plastic content and was fully recyclable across Europe.
Huhtamaki said it overcame the “significant challenge” of creating a strong seal and lid fit to the cup with new designs and processes.
“Dairy products are an important part of our daily life and creating recyclable packaging for something as important as your morning yogurt has been a challenge, especially while maintaining the high-performance standards required,” said president of fibre foodservice across Europe, Asia and Oceania Fredrik Davidsson. 
“Our solution is highly functional in terms of product performance and barrier properties, and it is cost-efficient and meets customer and consumer expectations.”
Huhtamaki said the cup helped address consumer demand for reduced plastic in packaging.
“Our team has identified a varnish to replace the outer polyethylene layer, which maintains a paper-like feel with a matt finish and provides a high moisture barrier for products stored in chilled conditions,” he added.
“This is important for manufacturers, retailers and consumers, ensuring that our unique product delivers the functional performance of traditional paper cups with a lower plastic content, while still being fully recyclable.”
