UPM Specialty Materials and Royal Vaassen have introduced a fibre-based, PFAS-free packaging solution for pet treats, extending an existing high-barrier paper platform into this application as regulatory pressure intensifies in Europe.
The development comes as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) tightens restrictions on PFAS, pushing brand owners to seek compliant alternatives to conventional multilayer structures.
Pet treats typically require packaging that can withstand grease, aroma, moisture, oxygen and light—functions traditionally delivered by plastic or aluminium laminates, or PFAS-based barrier papers. According to the companies, the Barryrwrap concept developed by Royal Vaassen meets these requirements without the use of fluorinated chemistries.
The solution combines Royal Vaassen’s barrier technology with UPM Solide™ Lucent packaging paper, used as the base material. Its high density and surface smoothness enable low coating weights while maintaining strength and runnability on high-speed converting lines.
Royal Vaassen said its Barryrwrap Everest grade is designed for premium applications, preserving freshness and product integrity throughout shelf life while supporting a shift toward fibre-based alternatives.
UPM highlighted the material’s printability and visual characteristics, noting that the natural paper appearance can support on-shelf differentiation while reinforcing sustainability messaging.
The packaging is suitable for food contact applications and has been assessed for recyclability using CEPI/4evergreen and PTS testing protocols.
The solution will be presented at Interpack, held in Düsseldorf from May 7 to 13, where converters and brand owners are expected to evaluate alternatives to traditional barrier packaging.
UPM Specialty Materials develops high-performance papers for packaging and labelling, with production sites in China, Finland and Germany, serving global markets.
Royal Vaassen is a European packaging specialist focused on flexible solutions that combine material performance with recyclability and premium positioning.
Based on information released by UPM.
