BioPowder has introduced a sustainable packaging solution using olive stone powders, derived from the by-products of olive oil production. These powders, branded as Olea FP (Functional Powder), are designed to improve the performance of biodegradable packaging, aiding the transition to eco-friendly materials.
The company says the versatile powders suitable for various packaging products such as transparent films, solid containers, barrier coatings, and bio-based adhesives. Olea FP can be utilised in processes like injection moulding, extrusion, and film blowing, offering flexibility to packaging manufacturers.
According to BioPowder, the powders are compostable and provide features like customisability, durability, and low density, making them suitable for lightweight applications, including food packaging.
Kathrin Schilling, founder and director of BioPowder, emphasised the significance of sustainable innovation in the packaging industry, stating, “Our goal is to assist material scientists in their developments, wherever they are standing in their journey towards a reduced environmental impact.”
The olive stone powders are produced through a resource-efficient mechanical process, supporting rural development in the Mediterranean region. By upcycling olive stones, BioPowder promotes a circular economy and reduces waste. The manufacturing process also benefits from carbon capture by olive trees, further lowering emissions.
BioPowder’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its use of agricultural by-products instead of crops, ensuring minimal disruption to the food chain. The company sources its materials from the Mediterranean and operates its production facility in Southern Spain.