VIENNA (News release) -- Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, has introduced its first recyclable functional barrier paper bag for salads in the Group LSDH's Les Crudettes range. The sustainable packaging is a fully integrated solution - Mondi operates across the value chain from sustainably managed forests, to producing pulp and kraft paper, applying the coating and printing the final material.

The French salad brand has replaced its transparent glossy polypropylene (PP) packaging with Mondi's recyclable functional barrier paper for a selection of its pre-washed, ready-to-eat salads. The new packaging is 95% paper with a functional barrier layer, meaning the salad remains fresh for up to 10 days - the same amount of time as with the previous plastic packaging. It is verified as recyclable in the waste paper stream in France by the Recycling Authority (Cerec).

The bags are flexoprinted, with lifelike depictions of the salad contents on the front, along with a QR Code, which informs consumers about the contents, quality, recycling and even refund policy, if they happen to purchase a bag where the contents are not as fresh as expected.

Using its unique EcoSolutions approach, Mondi worked closely with LSDH, and its machine supplier Ilapak, to ensure that the new packaging is fit-for-purpose and can run on existing machines. The new solution is sustainable by design, and will support LSDH Group in meeting its sustainability goal of reducing the amount of plastic in its packaging.

Paulus Goess, Sales Director Speciality Kraft Paper, Mondi says: "We evaluated everything, from sourcing, to machinery, and the recycling process - all while collaborating closely with LSDH to deliver a sustainable solution without compromising on packaging performance. A key focus of our Mondi Action Plan 2030 (MAP2030) is to develop innovative packaging that keeps materials in circulation and prevents waste. We are proud to see our new circular-driven functional barrier paper being part of the solution. In particular as all converting steps are fully integrated across our value chain - from paper production to barrier application and printing."

Géraldine Collet, Marketing and Innovation Director, Les Crudettes / Groupe LSDH adds: "This is just the first step in the sustainability journey of our ready-to-eat salad range. The results are exciting - the packaging is created on existing machines, it looks great on-shelf, is resistant to humidity and supports our sustainability goals. These salad bags could revolutionise the ready-to-eat salad market, hugely reducing the amount of plastic needed, all while keeping the food fresh."

The newly-packaged salads are on sale throughout France now.