Koehler Paper proves the scalability of PFAS-free barrier solutions at Interpack 2026

From prototype to commercial reality

The latest edition of Interpack 2026, held this past May in Düsseldorf, served as a strategic platform for @KoehlerPaper to deliver a clear, substantiated message to the global packaging industry: the transition from plastic to paper in flexible packaging applications has definitively moved past the experimental phase and into large-scale commercial reality. The German specialty paper manufacturer utilized its space in Hall 8a to feature a comprehensive display of more than 40 real-world commercial packaging examples already on store shelves, all manufactured entirely with its barrier paper portfolio and targeting the food, personal care, and retail sectors.

In a market environment heavily influenced by the pressure of European regulations such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and tightening extended producer responsibility fees on non-recyclable formats, converters and brand owners are urgently seeking solutions that protect product integrity without compromising the end-of-life stage. The technological approach of Koehler Paper directly addresses this structural challenge. Instead of relying on conventional multi-layer laminates—which integrate aluminum or polymer layers that are notoriously difficult to separate in recovery facilities—the company has focused its innovation strategy on aqueous dispersion coating systems.

Engineering a circular lifecycle

These functional coatings are specifically engineered to separate from the cellulosic fibers under standard repulping conditions, enabling a high fiber recovery rate. Consequently, the product portfolio complies with the recyclability protocols established by Cepi (Confederation of European Paper Industries), ensuring that the material can be seamlessly processed within standard waste paper recycling streams across Europe.

During the exhibition, converting and packaging professionals had the opportunity to technically analyze critical product innovations integrated into commercial lines:

• Koehler NexPlus OGR: Engineered specifically to meet the rigorous demands of the food service and fast-food industries, this barrier paper achieves superior resistance to grease and oil with one crucial advantage: it is completely free of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), keeping converters ahead of impending regulatory restrictions on these persistent forever chemicals.
• Koehler NexPlus Seal Pure MOB: Showcased through a partnership with food manufacturer Ruf Lebensmittelwerk KG, this substrate successfully replaced plastic complexes in the brand's porridge pouches. It is heat-sealable on high-speed packaging lines and features integrated barriers against mineral oils (MOSH and MOAH), guaranteeing food safety for dry goods over extended shelf lives.

The broader NexFlex portfolio, which also encompasses the NexCoat and NexPure lines, proves that paper substrates can match the runnability of plastics on both vertical and horizontal form-fill-seal (VFFS and HFFS) machinery. The more than 40 commercial applications showcased demonstrated the material's suitability for housing everything from pasta and tea to solid cosmetics and energy bars. This comprehensive display underscores that the recent investments in the company’s Kehl production facility have equipped it with the necessary capacity to supply industrial volumes to the market.

Ultimately, Koehler Paper's participation at Interpack 2026 was not a mere exhibition of R&D prototypes, but a robust demonstration of production capability and market readiness. The paper and board industry is assuming a leading role in the circular economy, and substrates with integrated functional barriers represent one of the highest value-added and fastest-growing segments for the coming years.

Koehler Paper's commitment to PFAS-free dispersion coatings showcases a level of technical leadership that elevates the entire recyclable packaging value chain. How quickly will global fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies adapt their legacy packaging lines to capitalize on the performance of these advanced barrier papers? Follow The Paper for daily news, market signals and key updates from the global paper, corrugated and packaging industry. — Sigue toda la actualidad del sector en www.thepaper.ai