Solution provider for high-performance barrier filmsDSM counts on functional packaging growth in IndiaNetherland’s life sciences and material sciences company, DSM, featured numerous new applications in automotive, mobile electronics and electrical equipment at Plastindia 2015. The company also talked about applications for the packaging segments. DSM’s product portfolio in flexible packaging includes various polyamide 6, 66 and 6/66 copolymer types – Akulon and Novamid – as well as Arnitel copolyester elastomers, including bio-based Arnitel Eco. These materials can be used for food packaging, functional packaging, and also for medical packaging.
The DSM stand at Plastindia 2015. Photo PSAAkulon and Novamid polyamides can be used to provide high barrier in multilayer coextruded films for packaging of meat, cheese, and edible oils. These films provide enhanced food protection by increasing the shelf-life. Akulon and Novamid can also be used for high-barrier thermoformable films which are used for packaging nuts.
Arnitel thermoplastic copolyester can be converted into breathable films with high permeability to water vapour, for modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) of fresh fruits and vegetables, once again extending shelf-life and reducing food waste. Akulon polyamides and Arnitel copolyesters, with their resistance to high and low temperatures, are ideal for cooking bags, freezer-to-oven bags, and pan liners that provide extra convenience in the kitchen, simplify meal preparation, and reduce the need for washing-up afterwards.
High barrier multilayer thermoformable packaging films incorporate Akulon protect medical devices and components. For DSM, the packaging segment currently constitutes a very small part of the business in India. However, the company sees strong growth potential in the country. According to Sanjay Jain, business director at DSM Engineering Plastics India, food packaging is the most prominent segment which has immense room for growth.
Jain informed that currently only 3% of fruits and vegetables in India are sold through organized retail outlets, and this sector currently pre-packs only 15% of its fruit and vegetables. The organized retail sector is growing rapidly, at around 20% each year, and it is targeting to pack around 70% of these products. DSM is working on a MAP solution for this segment.
Jain pointed out that most of the local multilayer coextruded film manufacturers in India have approved DSM products in the past. “With Novamid premium copolyamides in our product portfolio, customers can turn to DSM as a complete solution provider for high-performance barrier films. The functional packaging market is expanding, and DSM is considered as a source of packaging solutions for high temperature food processing. Fruit and vegetable packaging customers see DSM as a provider of solutions to meet their needs to increase food safety,” Jain concluded.
