Meeting the Demand for Compostable Packaging

Sirane Ltd is set to launch Siraflex – a fully compostable, starch based packaging film available in a range of styles and thickness, from 30 to
200 microns. Sirane Director, Simon Balderson, said: “Not only is Siraflex fully compliant with the international EN15343 standard for plastic
composting, it has also passed the OK standard for home compostability with flying colours. We are clear that we have a universal film
application and a fantastic compostable product that can be used in all areas of packaging; for lidding, pouches, wraps and bags – only the
imagination will constrain its development.” Patents for Siraflex and its production method have been applied for. A key requirement for Sirane’s new packaging film was an overall reduction in packaging for the customer – and this Siraflex has achieved, offering full compostable properties at a third of the thickness of equivalent current film packaging.

Balderson added: “The current demand for compostable packaging continues to be a big driver in the UK supermarkets. Siraflex has been created in response to this compostable demand. From a usage point of view, existing compostable films that offer true compostability tend to be not truly fit for purpose - too thick or inflexible and certainly too expensive. On the other hand, the market has also seen a raft of oxy-based polymer packaging such as PLA-based materials, which have not performed as promised and which do not offer the true compostability that the market seeks. The proprietary production process for Siraflex involves no environmental by-products and involves no residuals such as adhesives after compostability. Trials are currently taking place in a number of food packaging areas.” said Balderson. Barrier versions will also be available.