Survey on PVC-free lid seals
With the intention of illustrating the Coop ban on PVC and plasticizers but also draws attention to the problems associated with PVC and bringing about swift transition Coop Swiss recently started a survey of lid seals among suppliers of its own brands. Background: Coop has expressed in the “Sustainable Procurement Directive” a ban on PVC-containing packaging. And also Bio Suisse prohibits the use of PVC-containing packaging. This also applies to the glass jars with twist-off lids.
In the form of a letter and a detailed questionnaire, Coop is approaching its suppliers with the aim of determining their knowledge of the Coop attitude to PVC and how they handle it.
The problems are briefly outlined in the letter: “In cover seals of glass jars plasticizers are used in the sealant. Some plasticizers are classified as harmful substances. In particular with fatty content there is a risk that a greater proportion of the plasticizer from the lid migrate into the food”. In this introduction, the suppliers are requested to complete a questionnaire and return it to Coop.
The questionnaire comprises five areas with questions concerning type of products manufactures, PVC-topic, risk analysis, conformity and conversion.
This is a very important initiative by Coop considering plasticizers are still to be found in preserving jars with oily contents as indicated by European tests, e.g. those initiated by the Cantonal Laboratory in Zurich. 98 percent of the products tested in 2015 exceeded the limits specified in EU Directives – some up to a hundred-fold.
How is looking for a PVC-free alternative will find it at Actega DS TPE technology. With this technology it has been possible to close an essential gap in the elimination of PVC from packaging coming into contact with food.
In the form of PROVALIN, the market offers a closure sealant compound free of PVC and phthalates which complies with all EU guidelines and guarantees maximum food safety. The various models mean that there are suitable solutions available for all food packaged in jars and bottles. The TPE technology used in manufacturing PROVALIN is much more gentle on resources. More energy saving and more cost efficient. Accordingly, the use of this method largely complies with the requirements of sustainable and clean production.
Actega DS will be exhibiting at K-fair, October 19. – 26., Düsseldorf, hall 5, stand 5E16.