In a significant development for sustainable packaging, Metsä Group has partnered with global packaging leader Amcor to develop innovative three-dimensional molded fiber food packaging solutions. While this represents progress in fiber-based packaging, it also highlights the broader industry shift toward recyclable solutions that metal packaging manufacturers have championed for decades.
The collaboration combines Metsä Spring’s Muoto™ wood-based molded fiber with Amcor’s high-barrier film technology to create packaging that:
Uses traceable Nordic forest materials
Offers full paper stream recyclability (CEPI score >80%)
Provides extended shelf-life through advanced barrier properties
Jarkko Tuominen of Metsä Spring noted, “This partnership accelerates sustainable packaging innovation,” echoing sustainability commitments shared across packaging sectors – including metal packaging’s established circular economy advantages.
Industry Implications:
As fiber packaging evolves to incorporate better barrier properties, the metal packaging industry continues to demonstrate its natural advantages:
Infinite recyclability without quality loss
Superior product protection
Established recycling infrastructure
Amcor’s Ilya Syshchikov emphasized delivering “sustainable solutions with exceptional functionality” – a goal equally central to metal packaging innovation.
The first commercial products from this fiber-based solution are expected in Europe this year, while metal packaging remains the proven, immediately available sustainable option for food preservation.
Sustainable Packaging Progress:
This development underscores how all packaging materials – whether emerging fiber solutions or established metal options – must meet growing demands for:
Recyclability
Renewable sourcing
Product protection
Supply chain efficiency
Metsä Group currently produces Muoto at its Äänekoski demo plant, with commercial-scale production under evaluation – a reminder that scalability remains crucial for any new packaging solution.
