For many years, BASF Gastronomy has worked closely with Werz Wurst-Fleisch-Convenience GmbH to consistently supply high-quality meat and sausage products. Now, this collaboration has taken a significant step toward sustainability through a joint initiative with SÜDPACK, a leading supplier of high-performance packaging films.
Pioneering Circular Packaging in the Horeca Sector
As part of a cross-value chain effort, Werz is introducing BASF’s sustainable polyamide Ultramid® Ccycled into its packaging for the Horeca sector (hotel, restaurant, and community catering). BASF is using Ultramid® Ccycled in this segment for the first time.
SÜDPACK produces the new thermoformed packaging using Ultramid Ccycled as a mass-balanced, drop-in product. This innovative solution integrates seamlessly into existing manufacturing systems, requiring no changes to production infrastructure.
Meeting Future EU Packaging Regulations
Dr. Paul Neumann, from BASF’s New Business Development and Sustainability Polyamides Europe division, stated, “By using recycled raw materials in this packaging, we show that the targets set by the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) can be met through chemical recycling.”
The upcoming regulation mandates a defined share of recycled content in contact-sensitive packaging starting in 2030, alongside recyclability standards. Moving forward, regulators plan to extend these requirements beyond food retail to include community catering.
True Closed-Loop Packaging System
Germany’s current minimum standard rates the high-barrier packaging film in this solution as recyclable in the polyethylene stream.
Industry Support for Sustainable Innovation
Frank Werz, Managing Director, Werz Wurst-Fleisch-Convenience GmbH, said, “Sustainable and recyclable packaging is an increasingly critical issue. We’re excited to have BASF Gastronomy as a partner to help establish this solution in the Horeca sector.”
