HELSINKI— Global supplier of sustainable materials Ahlstrom announced Nov. 10 it has received the Innovation in Sustainability Award from the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) for its PawPrint® pet food packaging line.

Paper packaging solutions under the PawPrint line are fully recyclable and compostable. Using fiber-based materials, Ahlstrom has eliminated the need for plastic in the packaging, and its proprietary FluoroFree® technology offers grease resistance without the need for PFAS. The portfolio is designed to offer brands and consumers a visually appealing package with sustainability merits, and without sacrificing shelf life or palatability.

“Pet food brands and consumers are continuing to move to more sustainable and recyclable options for their packaging needs,” said Travis Dahlke, vice president of Ahlstrom’s Food Packaging Americas division, who accepted the award on behalf of the North American Food team. “Pet food is one of the most demanding applications for packaging in terms of grease resistance, and traditionally it has been difficult to provide plastic free and PFAS free solutions in this category. Ahlstrom’s pet food packaging offering is an excellent showcase of the innovation power of our teams.”

The award recognizes sustainability leaders working with manufactured paper and wood products.

“Being acknowledged by AF&PA and receiving this award for PawPrint® Pet Food Packaging is a great achievement,” said Mark Ushpol, executive vice president for Ahlstrom’s Food and Consumer Packaging division. “It demonstrates how we are living up to our purpose to purify and protect with every fiber for a sustainable world by innovating more sustainable solutions.”

Read more news from pet food and treat industry suppliers.