41 TEMA CENTRAL I MAIN TOPIC alternatives to plastics in certain uses and diversify the range of packaging available for food and beverages. In this case, it is important to consider greenwashing. 5. Biodegradable and Compostable Multilayer Flexible Plastics Multilayer packaging represents one of the main challenges in recyclability due to the complexity of separating its different layers. As an alternative, multilayer flexible plastics are being developed in which all layers are biodegradable and compostable. These solutions allow the functionality of multilayer packaging—barrier properties, lightness, and resistance—to be maintained with the advantage of being manageable at the end of its useful life through industrial composting. In a strict regulatory context, this type of development can gain space in specific market segments, such as dehydrated or semi-liquid products, among others, provided they are backed by rigorous certifications. 6. Biotechnology to Valorize Waste Beyond traditional materials, biotechnology is opening new avenues for the circular economy in packaging. Through enzymes and microorganisms, it is possible to transform organic waste and industrial byproducts into new, usable compounds. These processes allow, for example, obtaining biopolymers from organic waste, closing the loop and generating materials with a smaller environmental footprint. By 2025, this trend consolidated as one of the most innovative, connecting waste valorization with the generation of more sustainable packaging. In parallel, the enzymatic recycling of plastics, such as PET, is emerging as a key solution to complement mechanical and chemical recycling. Thanks to specific enzymes, it is possible to break down polymers into their original monomers with high selectivity and lower energy consumption, allowing the production of new food-grade packaging without losing properties. This technology not only expands recycling options but also helps reduce dependence on virgin raw materials and advances towards a circular packaging model. How these trends are being applied in the industry The transition to these new packaging models is already underway and is reflected in numerous ongoing developments. At technology centers like ITENE, we collaborate with industry to translate these trends into applicable and scalable solutions. The use of LCA methodologies and ecodesign guidelines directs impact reduction from the design phase. In the area of monomaterials, projects like NEFLEXAR and SUSFLEX, developed by ITENE and supported by [unspecified organization], are advancing recyclable flexible films with high preservation performance. At the same time, advanced decontamination technologies are being researched to allow the reincorporation of recycled polyolefins in food contact, and barrier coatings for paper and cardboard are being developed that provide resistance to moisture and grease without compromising recyclability, as is the case with the INNCELPACK project. And in the field of biotechnology, through initiatives such as the Cervera Agromatter Network, funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation through CDTI, progress is being made in transforming organic waste into reusable compounds for new packaging, strengthening the connection between innovation, sustainability, and the circular economy. In parallel, ITENE evaluates the compostability and biodegradability of these packaging alternatives in its laboratories, verifying their suitability for product needs and their capacity to compost and biodegrade. This ensures compliance with the necessary requirements to obtain leading internationally recognized certifications and labels, as well as food safety in new packaging developments for the food sector, in accordance with European requirements. A decisive year for the sector Compliance with the PPWR (Product Packaging Regulation) requires companies to act quickly, but it also presents an opportunity to differentiate themselves with innovative, safe, and sustainable packaging. ITENE supports this process by providing technical expertise, validation capabilities, and developments that enable trends to become industrial realities. 2025 has not only been a year of regulatory adaptation; it marks the beginning of a new era in which sustainable and innovative packaging will be key to the competitiveness of the food and beverage industry in Europe. Packaging Trends: A Sustainable and Innovative Future Carlos Monerris , Director of Technology Transfer and Market at ITENE Envase celulósico para frutos secos – Fuente: ITENE Cellulosic packaging for nuts – Source: ITENE.
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