The British packaging manufacturer Spectra Packaging aims to further increase the proportion of post-consumer recycled material (PCR) in its plastic packaging and establish a 55 per cent rate as the new standard. The first products to feature this are the new Classico and Rotondo PET jar ranges, which are now set to be launched with a 55 per cent recycled content. The company is thus continuing its gradual increase in the proportion of recycled material. In 2018, Spectra initially introduced a standard of 10 per cent and raised this to 35 per cent in 2021. With PCR55, the company is responding to stricter requirements regarding the use of recycled materials, including those set out in the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

Jar range in seven sizes

According to the company, the new Classico range will initially comprise jars in seven different sizes with capacities ranging from 50 to 400 millilitres. The straight-walled PET packaging is manufactured using the injection stretch blow moulding process to ensure the clarity and consistency of the material. According to Spectra, they also achieve a ‘green’ rating under the UK’s Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM). The Rotondo range, which is still under development, is set to follow with a softer, more rounded silhouette for brands seeking greater differentiation.

Recycled material from collected plastic waste

For its PCR55 products, Spectra intends to use recycled plastic from coastal areas threatened by marine plastic pollution, as it already does for its existing packaging made from recycled PET and HDPE. PET allows for a high proportion of recycled material without compromising on high-quality appearance and performance. “PCR55 is the next step in our journey towards greater sustainability,” said Spectra’s Sales Director, Jonathan Powell. “By setting a 55 per cent recycled content as standard, we are supporting our customers in their sustainability goals whilst ensuring the quality required for premium packaging.”