Innovia Films has introduced Propafilm™ CHBM, an ultra-high barrier metallised biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film developed as an alternative to aluminium foil in flexible food packaging. The launch is intended to help brands and packaging converters combine strong product protection with polypropylene-based structures designed to support recyclability.
For snack producers, maintaining product freshness while reducing packaging complexity remains a key consideration, particularly for products vulnerable to oxygen, moisture and flavour loss.
Protection for Sensitive Snack Products
The 18 μm film combines high oxygen and water vapour barrier properties with aroma and flavour protection. These characteristics could be relevant to packaged crisps, nuts, crackers and other savoury snacks where exposure to air or humidity can compromise crispness, taste and shelf life.
Innovia says the material offers high optical density, strong metal adhesion and thermal stability. Its reverse side is treated for lamination or surface printing, allowing converters to incorporate it into a range of flexible packaging structures. Possible formats include stand-up and flat pouches, alongside other mono-material laminate applications.
Unlike a conventional aluminium foil layer, Propafilm CHBM is intended to be used within polypropylene-based laminates, potentially simplifying material combinations in packs that need demanding barrier performance.
Supporting Recyclable Packaging Design
According to Innovia, the film has been engineered to support the move towards recyclable mono-material polypropylene packaging without sacrificing the protective qualities associated with foil.
“As brands continue to seek packaging solutions that combine high performance with improved recyclability, Propafilm™ CHBM represents another significant step forward,” said Alasdair McEwen, Business Unit Director Packaging EMEA at Innovia Films.
He added that the material could help customers simplify packaging designs while maintaining product protection.
The development adds to Innovia Films’ wider BOPP portfolio, reflecting the continuing focus on material efficiency, shelf-life performance and recyclability in the flexible packaging sector. Actual recyclability will depend on the complete packaging structure and local collection and recycling infrastructure.
