Argos Packaging & Protection has introduced two innovative films for fresh food packaging that respond to the growing demand for more sustainable solutions and are ready for the future.

norifresh™

With norifresh™, Argos takes an important step towards fossil-free packaging. Argos Packaging & Protection introduces norifresh™ in collaboration with noriware. This top seal film for direct food contact is 100% biobased and made from seaweed. As such, norifresh™ aligns seamlessly with the upcoming PPWR regulations concerning the ban on single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables, under which a number of products—yet to be determined—may no longer be packaged in plastic.

The packaging industry is facing a clear transition. Legislation on single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables is becoming more stringent. norifresh™ helps producers and packers prepare for this in a timely manner, without compromising on performance or efficiency.

The key benefits of norifresh™

According to the EU definition, norifresh™ is not classified as plastic. The film is fully biobased and contains no fossil-based raw materials. Compared to conventional plastic films, norifresh™ achieves a 70–89% lower CO₂ footprint. After use, the film can be recycled together with paper and cardboard, can be sealed onto uncoated cardboard and pulp trays and is compatible with existing top seal machines. Initial tests also indicate that norifresh™ has the potential to extend the shelf life of fresh products by absorbing moisture and reducing condensation.

Prevented Ocean Plastic™

In addition, Argos has introduced a new BOPP film for direct food contact in collaboration with Bantam Materials UK, Prevented Ocean Plastic™ and Innovia Films. This film is made from mechanically recycled polypropylene sourced from Prevented Ocean Plastic™ and is available with 10% or 35% PCR content. The film complies with European legislation (EU 2022/1616) and is based on a recycling process that has been assessed by EFSA. It aligns with upcoming PPWR requirements mandating that food contact materials contain at least 10% recycled content and supports compliance with the regulations.

Here too, processability is key: the film runs identically to conventional BOPP film, is suitable for both horizontal and vertical packaging lines and is available with perforation and printing. With every delivery, the required EU food contact documentation is provided.

How Argos prepares for the future of fresh food packaging

With norifresh™ and the BOPP film containing Prevented Ocean Plastic™, Argos Packaging & Protection offers two strong routes towards more sustainable packaging: one biobased and fossil-free, the other circular and made with recycled material. Both solutions combine sustainability with speed, compatibility and food safety.