SIG has received Design® for Recyclability Recognition from the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for its spouted pouch using the Terra RecShield BD laminate, highlighting progress in developing recyclable flexible packaging formats for liquid applications.
The recognition confirms that the pouch structure is compatible with polyethylene (PE) recycling streams. From a packaging perspective, the development addresses a long-standing challenge in flexible packaging—integrating multiple components such as films, spouts, and closures into a single-material-compatible system without compromising performance.
Spouted pouches typically combine different materials to achieve barrier properties, mechanical strength, and dispensing functionality, which can limit recyclability. In this case, SIG’s laminate and spout have been designed to function together within a PE-based structure, enabling the entire pack to align with existing recycling guidelines.
The Terra RecShield BD laminate is engineered to balance key packaging requirements, including product protection, seal integrity, and machinability on filling lines, while maintaining compatibility with recycling systems. This reflects a broader industry shift toward mono-material or compatible-material structures in flexible packaging.
The solution expands SIG’s Terra portfolio of recyclable packaging formats and represents an extension of recyclability efforts into spouted pouch applications, which are widely used in liquid food and beverage segments such as dairy, sauces, and beverages.
APR Design® recognition provides third-party validation that the packaging meets established recyclability criteria, offering brand owners a reference point when evaluating packaging formats against sustainability and compliance requirements.