VIENNA — Mondi announced the latest addition to its portfolio of sustainable pre-made plastic bags: FlexiBag Reinforced. The new line features mono-polyethylene-based, recyclable packaging with improved mechanical properties such as puncture-resistance, stiffness and sealability.

In addition, the level of barrier protection can be adjusted as needed to provide medium to high barriers against fat, oxygen and moisture, which makes it ideal for pet food products, according to the company.

In order to meet future regulatory requirements with regard to post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, FlexiBag Reinforced allows customers to customize the percentage of PCR used.

“Mondi recognizes the increasing emphasis on PCR materials driven by future regulative requirements and as a market leader in sustainable pet food packaging, we are taking every effort to secure sufficient upstream supply of PCR material for our customers,” said Dirk Gabriel, chief operating officer, Consumer Flexibles at Mondi. “By working closely with our partners along the value chain, we can understand the unique requirements of each customer and adapt accordingly to material efficiency and recyclability. With FlexiBag Reinforced, we are able to offer a solution that comes close to the material costs of conventional multi-material laminates for certain structures and at the same time offers recyclable packaging that gives our customers a competitive advantage in the market.”

Family-owned German pet food manufacturer mera is using FlexiBag Reinforced packaging containing 35% PCR content for its 10-kg (22-lb) packages of its vegan dry dog food. The company was able to easily incorporate the FlexiBag Reinforced packages into its existing packaging system, according to Mondi.

“We firmly believe that in nature, everything is inter-related. We are passionate about animal welfare — and part of that is a commitment to sustainability,” said Enes Tajic, purchasing manager at mera. “Working with our long-term, trusted partner Mondi meant that these new dog food products will be packed in a way that enables us to continue to create harmony between our furry friends and their environment.”

Read more about packaging solutions and trends for pet food and treats.