Seeking Materials &/or Technologies to enable recyclable paper-based meal tray/bowl packaging for frozen foods.

We are seeking any new materials or technologies that can enable the products in our portfolio that are currently in non-recyclable PET lined paperboard trays & bowls to be classified as *recyclable according to the current Nomad Foods Definition of recyclable (minimum of 95% paper by weight – including coatings & inks) across the majority of our markets, while maintaining the functionality & high temperature requirements for cooking in the pack.

Must Haves

• Recyclability according to Nomad Foods definition (see above)
• Food safety compliance in all Nomad Foods markets
• Suitable for frozen food environment
• Freedom to operate/IP
• Suitability to fit current industry standard packing & distribution processes (e.g. durability in manufacture, storage & distribution)
• Lid sealable
• Cook in pack functionality – up to 220C for 40 min oven, 15 mins 1000W microwave
• Must not leak during or after preparation by the consumer
• Capable of retaining shelf life of at least 18 months with no product or packaging degradation
• Understanding of commercial viability or route to creating commercial viability known
• Large volume potential or route to creating large volume known

Nice to Haves

• Certified evidence of recyclability in major EU markets
• Compatible with current processing machinery/technology
• Comparable cost with current tray materials
• European supply chain

Previously Assessed Solutions

• Under 5% PET coated paperboard – difficult to perform to the same standard under extreme temperature/time conditions & burning of the paperboard
• Some bio-polymer based coatings – product leakage through pack over time (especially for high acidity/oil products)
• Alternative base materials to paperboard (i.e. bagasse)– cost is high, some functionality in ‘must haves’ list can be lost