The new substrate, MetsaBoard Prime FBB EB, has been designed for use with fresh, frozen and dry food and has a medium barrier against moisture and grease without using a plastic layer, as such making it easier to recycle in paper or paperboard streams, according to the manufacturer.

The lack of plastic also makes recycling more cost-efficient as plastic separation processes aren’t needed.

Additionally, the substrate is free from optical brighteners and fluorochemicals.

“Packaging is a necessity, for food distribution and safety, as well as avoiding food waste,” said Metsa Board business development director Katja Tuomola.

“Paperboard packaging made from renewable materials is a sustainable choice, and with further development of the barrier properties of the paperboard we are now able to cater for a greater number of applications.

"Our new plastic-free eco-barrier paperboard provides many interesting opportunities for food and food service packaging as well as other end uses where barrier properties are needed,” she added.

MetsäBoard Prime FBB EB is made of pure fresh fibres sourced from sustainably managed Northern European forests. It is available both with PEFC or with FSC certification.