Fresh produce film development is shifting toward recyclable mono-materials fast. Innovia’s new P2G BOPP film targets flow wrap formats that need both respiration control and pack durability.
Heating convenience meals in plastic is facing sharper scrutiny now. A Greenpeace-backed review of 24 papers argues reheating in plastic trays can increase migration of microplastics and chemicals into food.
Commercial acreage is giving high-protein chickpeas an industrial foothold now. NuCicer and Stricks Ag are moving a new chickpea variety into scaled production for food ingredient applications.
Cocoa-free ingredients are moving deeper into mainstream confectionery manufacturing now. Nestlé Germany is launching a ChoViva-based Choco Crossies extension as branded alternatives gain industrial traction.
End-of-line automation suppliers are widening machine options before interpack 2026. Somic is expanding its portfolio with new machine series and handling technologies aimed at faster, simpler secondary packaging.
University research has intensified scrutiny of plastic contact materials globally. Derby scientists found repeated microplastic exposure damaged lab-grown liver microtissues, adding new pressure to packaging safety debates around chronic, low-level ingestion.
EPB Group is seeking transfer to Bursa Malaysia’s Main Market. The automation company, listed on ACE since August 2024, expects completion in Q3 2026, subject to approvals, and reported FY2024 net profit of RM9.79m, alongside operations spanning food processing lines, flexible packaging materials, and cellulose casings.
Xaar and Polipress are scaling digital embellishment for wine labels. More than 20 Versatex printbars are installed in Italy, enabling tactile varnish, cold-foil effects, and high-opacity whites at printing and converting stages, integrated with label press and finishing workflows.
Autopack has commissioned an automated sauce filling and capping line. The five-machine system at P&B (Foods) Ltd handles 250 ml to 1 L packs in glass or plastic, runs at up to 100 cpm, and combines a rotary unscrambler, 12-head piston filler, dual cappers, and multi-format labelling.
Barakat began building a halal baby food plant in KEZAD. The AED 150m, 10,000 sqm Abu Dhabi facility is designed for 90m units a year, producing fruit, vegetable, meat, and fish purées in pouches and glass jars via a JV with Pure Baby Food Industries.