The kp Elite trays form part of Klöckner Pentaplast’s range of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) trays, now endorsed by the Tray Circularity Evaluation Platform (TCEP). This recognition affirms their recyclability within the company's tray-to-tray recycling model.
TCEP is an initiative of PETCORE and is considered an emerging benchmark for assessing recyclability of PET food packaging trays. The platform’s criteria are also informing the development of upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) legislation in Europe.
Paul Rawlings, launch manager at kp Food Packaging, said the endorsement was a result of “the most comprehensive and practical testing protocol available for assessing PET thermoform recyclability.”
“TCEP’s technical expertise and rigorous evaluation process makes it the clear choice for validating packaging designs that will truly support a circular economy,” he said.
These trays incorporate up to 100 per cent recycled post-consumer PET (rPET), aligning with kp’s Tray2Tray initiative which aims to recycle post-consumer PET trays into new, food-grade packaging. Currently, only five per cent of the one million tonnes of PET trays produced annually in the EU are recycled into food-grade applications.
Additionally, two other solutions – kp MonoSeal and kp HotFill – have gained TCEP endorsement. kp MonoSeal, designed for fresh food like sliced cheese and processed meats, includes up to 80 per cent post-consumer recycled content. kp HotFill, suitable for applications up to 90ºC, contains up to 50 per cent recycled content.
TCEP brings together PET producers, packaging designers and recyclers through its Technical Committee, which is responsible for developing test procedures and offering confidential assessments of new packaging technologies.
