STEINBEISWEG - The first paper packaging system for the feminine hygiene sector, developed by Optima and Voith Paper, has received the German Packaging Award 2021.

“We are receiving more and more requests for the flexible processing of different packaging materials right from the outset,” said Markus Urich, Key Account Manager at Optima Nonwovens, adding that use of fully recyclable paper as the packaging material was a world first for the sector.

The development partnership with Voith Paper has also given Optima the basis to roll out the packaging system for other products for which paper packaging previously seemed unthinkable. “Whether paper, film or other packaging materials – it is essential to integrate product protection, sustainability and marketing successfully with one another,” added Dominik Broellochs, Group Sustainability Manager at Optima. "There is no one right packaging material, it always depends on the application. Design for recycling of course applies to all packaging and materials. The machine technologies required for this are available at Optima. This ensures the new packaging solutions have a successful future."

The packaging will soon be available in retail outlets. The Jury at the German Packaging Award 2021 noted: “Paper is not always an appropriate substitute for plastic when it comes to FMCG packaging (FMCG: Fast Moving Consumer Goods). Here, paper is a sustainable alternative that can easily be recycled.”