Avery Dennison has secured formal technology approvals from RecyClass for its self-adhesive label solutions designed for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) thermoform applications. Independent testing carried out in line with RecyClass protocols confirmed that the label technologies do not disrupt existing European recycling processes for PET trays and rigid containers. The approval validates the adhesive performance during standard industrial washing and sorting operations.
PET thermoforms, including fruit punnets, clamshells, and food containers, have traditionally proven harder to recycle than PET beverage bottles. A major operational challenge stems from label adhesives and facestocks, which often fail to separate during washing, leading to discolouration, melt-filtration blockages, and degraded mechanical properties in the resulting recycled resin. Achieving RecyClass compatibility confirms that these label formulations release cleanly during hot-wash stages, allowing the underlying clear PET matrix to be recovered without contamination.
For UK packaging converters, specifying RecyClass-approved label constructions provides verifiable proof of recyclability, helping brand owners navigate compliance with both the UK Plastic Packaging Tax and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). For Turkish recyclers and reprocessors—many of whom import post-consumer packaging scrap or export high-spec rPET sheet into Europe—the commercial roll-out of compatible labels improves input quality. Lower adhesive contamination in incoming thermoform bales reduces operational wash-water treatment burdens, extends melt-filter lifespan, and increases yields of high-purity rPET flake fit for food-contact applications.
Packaging buyers and converters should evaluate current label specifications on PET lines to align with design-for-recyclability guidelines. Simultaneously, reprocessors can prepare for higher-grade PET thermoform scrap yields as compliant materials enter the European waste stream.
