Klöckner Pentaplast (kp), a global leader in rigid and flexible packaging and specialty film solutions, has achieved Tray Circularity Evaluation Platform (TCEP) endorsement for its flagship kp Elite® range of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) trays, as the platform cements its position as Europe's leading benchmark for PET tray recyclability assessment.
TCEP, an independent industry association focused on PET thermoforms is a PETCORE initiative, which is rapidly emerging as the definitive authority on Design for Recycling (D4R) in food packaging trays. The platform's stringent evaluation criteria are already helping shape upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) legislation.
"We're excited to have gained TCEP endorsement for kp Elite®," said Paul Rawlings, Launch Manager at kp Food Packaging.
"TCEP represents the most comprehensive and practical testing protocol available for assessing PET thermoform recyclability. The organisation’s technical expertise and rigorous evaluation process makes it the clear choice for validating packaging designs that will truly support a circular economy.
kp Elite® is made with up to 100% recycled post-consumer PET (rPET), which is recyclable, and we also systematically include kp Tray2Tray® PCR content. This TCEP endorsement is particularly significant for kp's Tray2Tray® initiative, which aims to close the loop on PET tray recycling by recovering post-consumer PET trays and recycling them into new, food-safe packaging. With an estimated one million tonnes of PET trays produced annually in the EU, but only 5% currently recycled back into food-grade trays, TCEP endorsement helps to validate the circularity potential of kp's fresh and innovative approach to closing the tray loop."
Two other innovative solutions from kp have recently received TCEP endorsement as compatible with current European PET recycling streams. kp MonoSeal®, a mono PET rigid film with enhanced sealing performance for challenging fresh food applications such as sliced cheese and processed meats, contains up to 80% post-consumer recycled content. Additionally, kp HotFill®, a fully transparent mono PET film designed for hot filling applications up to 90ºC with up to 50% recycled content, has also achieved TCEP endorsement.
The TCEP platform brings together technical experts in PET production, design and recycling through its Technical Committee, which is establishing and evolving test procedures while providing confidential assessments of new technologies. This comprehensive approach makes TCEP endorsement particularly valuable for food brands and retailers looking to validate their packaging choices against upcoming PPWR requirements.
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