Technical analyst R&D at Amcor, Nayeleh Deirram’s innovative antistatic packaging solution for bulk milk powder has set a new standard in the dairy industry. It also earned her the 2024 PKN Women in Packaging – Packaging Technology Leader Award. Lindy Hughson asks her about the innovation and the win.
Can you share the key challenges you faced in developing the antistatic packaging solution and how you overcame them?
One of the main challenges was finding a way to dissipate static charges effectively while keeping the film strong, sealable and durable. Achieving the right balance required extensive formulation development and rigorous testing. We also had to ensure compliance with global food safety regulations while meeting the specific processing needs of our customers. This meant working closely with our material suppliers, running multiple lab trials, and validating our results through internal and external testing. By leveraging advanced polymer science and optimising manufacturing conditions, we successfully developed a solution that meets the industry’s high standards for safety and performance.
How did working with the Amcor Albany team contribute to the success of this specialised film?
Teamwork was essential for the success of this project, and I cannot emphasise enough the contributions of the Amcor Albany team based in New Zealand. Their close partnership was key to our success. Their film extrusion and processing expertise played a vital role in refining the formulation and optimising production parameters.
Our Albany site is recognised as a Centre of Excellence, establishing benchmarks for best practices and making them a leader in delivering high-quality solutions that drive success and improvement across various sectors. Their hands-on approach enabled us to run real-time trials, make quick adjustments, and ensure that our final product met both technical requirements and market needs. Additionally, their strong customer relationships helped bridge the gap between R&D and real-world application, ensuring that our solution was innovative but also practical and scalable for industry adoption.
What specific environmental benefits does this new film offer, and how does it align with broader industry sustainability goals?
Sustainability was a key driver in the development of this packaging solution. One of the most significant environmental benefits is its potential to reduce material waste by improving handling efficiency and durability and minimising product loss during transportation and storage.
We also focused on developing a recyclable structure that aligns with circular economy principles. This innovation supports the industry’s push towards sustainable packaging solutions by optimising material selection and ensuring compatibility with existing recycling streams. It also aligns with global commitments to reduce plastic waste, lower carbon footprints, and improve resource efficiency in food packaging.
Winning the PKN Women in Packaging – Packaging Technology Leader Award is a significant achievement. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
Receiving this award is both an honour and a strong validation of the work I am passionate about – developing innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. On a personal level, it reinforces my dedication to making meaningful advancements in the industry.
Professionally, it highlights the importance of collaboration, persistence, and technical expertise in driving innovation. I hope this recognition encourages more women in STEM and the packaging industry to take on leadership roles and push the boundaries of what’s possible. It’s a reminder that diverse perspectives and contributions are essential for shaping the future of packaging technology, and I am committed to mentoring and supporting others in their journey.
Looking ahead, what are the next big trends or challenges in packaging technology that you’re excited to tackle?
We’re at an exciting moment in the packaging industry, with sustainability and technology driving rapid advancements. One of the biggest trends is the shift towards fully recyclable and bio-based packaging materials while maintaining critical performance attributes such as barrier properties and durability. Developing high-barrier recyclable films that can replace traditional multi-layer structures is a challenge we need to tackle.
Another area is smart packaging – integrating technology for real-time tracking, product authentication, and extended shelf life. Innovation in active packaging – such as films that respond to environmental changes to enhance food preservation – is also really promising.
As regulations around sustainability become more stringent and consumer demand for sustainable solutions increases, the industry will need to find that balance between performance, cost, and environmental impact. I’m excited to be part of this transformation, working towards solutions that make packaging smarter and more sustainable.
