Südpack adds mono-PP film for yogurt drink pouches

Südpack has expanded the application range of its mono-PP laminates with a film solution for spouted pouches intended for drinkable yogurt and other protein-rich dairy products. The company positions the structure as an alternative to rigid PET bottles and cups, which continue to dominate this packaging segment. The PP-based concept combines a flexible stand-up pouch with a PP spout, while addressing product protection, sealing performance, processing stability and recyclability.

Demand for yogurt drinks is being supported by interest in healthier foods and convenient on-the-go consumption. New flavors, probiotic products and high-protein formulations are broadening the category. According to the forecasts cited by Südpack, the European market is expected to increase from USD 4.6 billion to approximately USD 6.7 billion by 2034. Europe accounts for almost 30% of the global market.

Rigid formats such as PET bottles and cups hold a market share of more than 44%, but flexible pouches are described as the fastest-growing alternative format, with forecast growth of 8%. Spouted pouches combine low packaging weight with practical handling. They can be securely reclosed, squeezed almost completely empty and used for clean consumption away from home. The stand-up format is also intended to withstand everyday handling in bags and backpacks.

Product protection and processing stability

The pouch is produced using CarbonLite PurePP, a polypropylene-based material. According to Südpack, its sealing performance and secure spout integration provide sealing strength and sustained leak tightness under stresses encountered throughout the value chain. These properties are intended to support packaging reliability and product safety.

During development of the cold-fill packaging concept, Südpack drew on its extrusion expertise and previous work with machine and spout manufacturers on fruit purée filling applications. The PP laminate is designed for processing on standard production equipment, including at high cycle rates.

The films were developed for the cold filling of drinkable yogurt and other dairy products where packaging materials require UVC or hydrogen peroxide treatment to reduce microbial load. Barrier properties can be adapted to the required level of protection against oxygen and water vapor. Based on internal tests, Südpack reports that the films provide the same shelf life as the PET/aluminum/PE laminates commonly used for these applications.

Recycling in the PP stream

The film structure is designed to facilitate recycling. The use of a PP pouch and PP spout allows the complete package to enter the PP recycling stream. Südpack states that the solution was developed in line with PPWR design principles and achieves a recyclability rate of more than 95%. The concept is intended to help brand owners adapt packaging portfolios to stricter Design for Recycling requirements concerning recyclability and material efficiency.

The switch in materials may also reduce climate impact. Internal calculations covering raw materials and production indicate that the CO2e footprint per square meter of a PP-based spouted pouch with a film thickness of 111 μm is more than 40% lower than for a 103 μm PET/aluminum/PE laminate. Südpack also notes that the conventional laminate is generally sent for energy recovery at the end of its life, whereas the PP-based structure can be mechanically recycled.

Support for packaging conversion

Südpack offers support during implementation of the packaging concept, from initial development to market readiness. Its services include technical consulting, application-specific sampling, material and packaging tests using specialized equipment, and assistance with carbon footprint and recyclability assessments.

The PP-based spouted pouch is intended for drinkable yogurt, drinkable skyr and comparable dairy products. It combines the handling characteristics expected of on-the-go packaging with the technical requirements of industrial filling operations. The format also provides a printable presentation surface and may help differentiate products in refrigerated retail displays.