Belgium tests new technology to recycle snack packaging into food containers

Belgium has become the first country in Europe to launch a large-scale trial aimed at recycling crisp packets and other snack packaging into new food-grade packaging, recycling organisation Fost Plus said on Thursday.

The project uses an invisible watermark printed on plastic packaging. The code, similar to a QR code, allows sorting machines to identify and separate food packaging from other plastic waste.

When packaging arrives at a sorting centre through the PMD recycling system, cameras can read the watermark and automatically direct the material to the correct recycling stream.

According to Fost Plus, this distinction is important because strict food safety rules apply to recycled plastic used in food packaging.

The trial is being carried out with major food companies, including Mondelez, Ferrero and PepsiCo. If successful, the technology could help Belgium meet new European targets for recycled content in food packaging and strengthen the country’s recycling sector.

Under the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), plastic food packaging must contain at least 10% recycled material by 2030.

^{© BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER}