Mondi and Prymat launch ultra-high barrier paper packaging for dried spices
A two-year collaboration between packaging manufacturer Mondi and Polish spice brand Prymat has resulted in a recyclable, paper-based packaging solution capable of meeting the demanding barrier requirements of dried seasoning products.
Replacing multi-material structures
Prymat has transitioned from conventional non-recyclable multi-layer packaging to a solution based on Mondi’s re/cycle FunctionalBarrier Paper Ultimate. The material contains at least 80% high-quality paper with a functional barrier coating optimised for recycling, and has been confirmed recyclable under the latest CEPI recyclability laboratory test method.
The switch addresses a longstanding technical challenge in the spice packaging sector, where the need to preserve aroma, flavour and freshness has historically driven reliance on multi-layer plastic or aluminium-based laminates.
Barrier performance
FunctionalBarrier Paper Ultimate achieves an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) below 0.5 cm³/m²d and a water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) below 0.5 g/m²d – performance metrics critical to maintaining spice quality across shelf life. According to Mondi’s product impact assessment tool, the material also delivers a significantly lower CO₂ impact than conventional multi-layer alternatives.
Beyond barrier properties, the material provides high-quality print results and sufficient stiffness to allow a reliable dead fold, enabling consumers to reseal the pack after first use without additional closure components.
Compatibility with existing filling lines
A practical consideration in the development was process integration. The new packaging is fully compatible with Prymat’s existing filling equipment, removing the need for capital investment in new machinery.
Marta Klęka-Nowa, PR Manager at Prymat, noted the scale of the technical challenge: “Given the very high barrier requirements and the preservation of spice quality, aroma, and freshness, this posed a significant technological challenge. Thanks to our collaboration with Mondi, we were able to develop a solution that aligns our sustainability ambitions with the highest standards of product quality.”
Adrian Goralski, Managing Director of Mondi Solec, emphasised the importance of application-specific development: “There are often several different routes to sustainability, and at Mondi, we work closely with brands to thoroughly learn about every step of their production, distribution and end use, so that we can create and test various options and be sure we are delivering the best possible and most sustainable outcome.”
