THE Constantia Flexibles Afripack team struck gold in the Paper is Possible category, sponsored by the Fibre Circle, at the 2021 Gold Pack Awards for its iconic paper-based Smarties multipack and mini eggs packaging for Nestlé South Africa.

‘Normally, paper doesn’t provide the required barrier for confectionery packaging, however, thanks to technical teams from both operations joining forces, an innovative solution emerged for our customer,’ explains Nicholas John, Constantia Flexibles Afripack MD and VP for Africa. ‘The result is an award-winning packaging design, which supports Nestlé’s global vision of fully recyclable packaging by 2025.’

Award-winning innovation

While moving from plastic to paper is not simple, both Nestlé South Africa and the Constantia Flexibles Afripack team were convinced that this revolution was possible, and together developed a new packaging substrate using a Mitsubishi 85g/m2 paper with a heat seal coating.

The packs were surface printed in seven colours and underwent numerous trials to ensure that the sealing and barrier properties were fit for purpose. The registration is perfect and the graphic design both supports the move to paper and encourages recycling, Nicholas remarks.

Partnering for sustainability

The partners believe that this innovation in materials, printing and sealing now paves the way for an eco-revolution in confectionery packaging. ‘Nestlé has reported that the packaging has received exceptionally positive consumer response and that production has soared. This is a massive accolade and we are extremely proud of everyone involved in delivering this revolutionary packaging solution,’ he enthuses.

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