SÜDPACK targets recyclable packaging for sensitive dairy products

SÜDPACK has developed a recyclable mono-material polypropylene packaging solution designed specifically for drinkable yogurt and other sensitive dairy products. The new spouted pouch concept combines product protection, process reliability and improved recyclability while reducing the environmental impact associated with conventional multilayer flexible packaging.

The solution forms part of SÜDPACK's CarbonLite portfolio and is based on its PurePP film technology. By combining the PP-based film with a compatible polypropylene spout, the company can create a pouch largely composed of a single polymer family, simplifying its compatibility with existing recycling streams.

96% recyclability for the complete pouch

According to SÜDPACK, the complete packaging concept, including both film and spout, has achieved a recyclability rating of 96% under certification by cyclos-HTP.

The company also reports that the mono-material structure can deliver a 44% lower carbon footprint compared with a conventional PET/aluminium/PET/PE laminate. The comparison assumes that 96% of the mono-PP structure is recycled, while the conventional multilayer structure is incinerated.

These figures highlight the potential environmental benefits of replacing complex laminates containing aluminium and multiple polymer types with structures designed around a single dominant material.

Designed for cold-filled drinkable yogurt

The film has been developed specifically for cold-filling applications and can withstand hygiene treatments including UVC and hydrogen peroxide processing. These capabilities are particularly important for dairy products, where packaging must maintain high hygiene standards while protecting sensitive contents throughout their shelf life.

SÜDPACK says the material offers strong sealing properties and a broad processing window, allowing stable production even at high cycle rates. The film is also engineered to provide reliable sealing around the spout, helping to maintain package integrity during filling, transport and consumer use.

Barrier performance can be adapted to the product

Product protection remains a critical requirement when transitioning towards recyclable flexible packaging. Drinkable yogurt can be sensitive to oxygen and moisture, meaning mono-material structures must achieve sufficient barrier performance without relying on conventional aluminium layers or incompatible polymers.

The PurePP solution can therefore be equipped with customised oxygen and water-vapour barriers depending on the specific product requirements. This allows manufacturers to balance shelf-life requirements with recyclability objectives.

The pouch format also offers advantages in material efficiency, using significantly less packaging material than many rigid alternatives while providing a lightweight format for transport and storage.

Mono-material structures continue to gain momentum

The development reflects a broader industry shift towards mono-material flexible packaging as manufacturers prepare for stricter recyclability requirements and extended producer responsibility systems.

Replacing conventional multilayer laminates remains technically challenging, particularly for demanding food applications where barrier properties, sealing performance and mechanical durability cannot be compromised.

SÜDPACK's solution demonstrates how mono-material polypropylene structures are increasingly moving into more sensitive applications such as dairy packaging. By combining high recyclability with product protection and industrial processability, the company aims to provide an alternative that can meet both operational requirements and emerging circular-economy targets.