At this year’s Interpack, Sappi, a manufacturer of functional flexible packaging papers, presented a broad range of sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions from primary wraps to secondary formats for confectionery. The exhibition focused on the transition of the sector under the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which is already influencing packaging decisions across Europe. But what does it look like for confectionery applications?
PPWR reshapes packaging decisions
The EU PPWR will apply from 12 August 2026, but the new requirements will be introduced progressively over time, with many of the most significant obligations taking effect by 2030, including the requirement for all packaging placed on the EU market to be recyclable. The regulation mandates recycled plastic content, reuse of beverage packaging, and restricts certain single-use packaging applications as well as ‘substance of concern’, such as PFAS, in packaging. The PPWR directly affects packaging composition and design for various formats such as e.g. flowpacks, wrappers, sachets, bags and pouches.
For confectionery brands, PPWR adds a practical decision layer to material selection, as it impacts cost structures, portfolio decisions, and brand credibility. Packaging needs to meet defined recyclability performance grades while maintaining product protection, process efficiency and shelf impact. Formats with weaker recyclability performance will face higher extended producer responsibility exposure, while more recyclable material choices can support cost control, customer trust and sustainability targets.
At Interpack, Sappi showcased recyclable mono-material functional papers developed specifically for confectionery, with a particular focus on chocolate. Designed to meet the incoming regulatory requirements and rising demand for sustainable packaging, the solutions showed how Sappi’s high-barrier, barrier and heat-sealable papers can support both primary and secondary packaging formats.
High production protection in primary packaging & mechanical strength in secondary packaging
Among the primary packaging solutions presented were flow wrap applications using the high-barrier papers Guard Pro OHS, which also offers heat-sealing functionality, and Guard Pro OMH for cold-seal applications. Typical end uses include chocolate bars and tablets. At Interpack, Sappi and packaging machine manufacturer Sacmi presented their successful collaboration through the high-barrier paper grades Guard Pro OHS and Guard Pro OMH. Their goal was to achieve the same packaging performance with paper as with plastic. Through extensive testing, Sappi optimized the mechanical properties of its high barrier papers, while Sacmi adapted its packaging machines by modifying tension control, sealing systems, and forming components, including custom-made 3D-printed forming shoulders. The partnership demonstrates how innovative paper-based packaging materials and adapted machine technology can work together to provide sustainable, recyclable alternatives to conventional plastic packaging without compromising performance or efficiency.
Sappi also presented Guard Twist – a wax-free twisting paper – for single or double twist used for pralines and candies. Sappi and the machine manufacturer ACMA showcased at Interpack their collaboration on paper-based double twist wrapping solutions for confectionery, combining Sappi’s Guard Twist paper with ACMA’s wrapping technologies to deliver sustainable packaging without compromising efficiency, product quality, visual appeal, or machine performance. The partners created a recyclable, wax-free paper solution with high gloss, crack resistance, and reliable runnability under demanding twist applications
