Baralan debuts biopolymer for fully recyclable cosmetic and fragrance packaging

20 Apr 2021 --- Italy-based cosmetic packaging specialist Baralan is launching a bio-based packaging range for skin care, fragrance and makeup products. 

The range consists of new variations of Baralan’s current product offerings but produced with a biopolymer derived from renewable resources and natural materials not linked to the food chain. This is exemplifying Baralan’s commitment to sustainability, the company says.

“Our bio-based packaging series of sustainable packaging is an exciting, transformational development for Baralan,” says Maurizio Ficcadenti, global R&D manager at Baralan. 

“Our ability to design beautiful, functional packaging for our customers that is also renewably sourced represents a major step in reducing our environmental impact and creating positive societal outcomes. We look forward to incorporating biopolymers into even more product developments in the future.”

Biopolymer alternatives
Baralan says it can use this biopolymer as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic polymers. 

“Biopolymers are natural polymers. The prefix ‘bio’ denotes that the sources of biopolymers are living organisms which are often biodegradable. Biopolymers are 100 percent natural and made from plant raw materials which are renewable, sustainable and which consist of monomeric units that are bonded, forming chain-like molecules,” Ficcadenti tells PackagingInsights.

Baralan bio-based packaging range for skin care, fragrance and makeup products consists of new variations 

Biopolymers combine the processing capabilities of thermoplastic materials with renewable resources, displaying advantages from both sources, like the ability to be compostable. Moreover, the production of biopolymers uses biomass and not fossil resources, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, he adds.

The company can produce certain standard items with injection molding technology by combining the processing capabilities of thermoplastic materials with the properties of renewable resources and natural materials. 

The biopolymer is made by combining natural fibers and waste from a specific manufacturing process, ensuring full recyclability. 

The sustainable development of these products is linked to a circular economy notion that considers quality and aesthetics, satisfying both design and functionality needs while ensuring better conditions for products’ life cycle. 

All products in Baralan’s new bio-based series reduce the use of synthetic components and increase reuse of materials deriving from industrial waste and production processes, supporting the recycling process.

Flexible applications
The bio-based series presents products with flexible applications in manufacturing, allowing the use of existing molds and equipment. 

Baralan supports that it already has and will continue to perform positive mechanical tests and testing compatible coloring elements and decorations.

The bio-based packaging series of sustainable packaging is an exciting, transformational development for Baralan, the company says. Baralan’s new bio-based series is intended for:

• Roll On Packaging (fragrance and essential oil applications) with three bio-based caps with a bio-Housing GPI 13/415 and GPI special for roll-on, that combined with the glass roll-on ball creates a full eco-friendly roll-on set. 
• Glass Jars (skincare and makeup applications) with three bio-based Malang caps in GPI 40/400, GPI 48/400 and GPI 53/400.
• Compact case (skincare and makeup applications) with the bio-based Colt Jar 15.
• Spray or Cream Pumps (fragrance, skincare, and makeup applications) with the bio-based overcap Mauritius Slim GPI 18/415 to be combined with glass bottles of any capacity.
• Nail Polish with the bio-based cap Mary Smooth 13 GPI 13/415 compatible with any glass bottles with the same neck size and all available accessories. 

Baralan NPD track
Baralan is increasingly seeking to develop more sustainable packaging solutions. Recently, the company introduced two lines of glass bottles – branded Mirella and Alexia – developed primarily for use in the nail polish segment. 

“The innovation of the Mirella and Alexia lines is found in the distinct style and unique shapes to stand out in the market,” Maurizio Ficcadenti, global R&D manager at Baralan, told PackagingInsights.

Earlier this year, it also introduced the Minerva Jar 50 Amber, an expansion of its popular Minerva line. Characterized by its amber color, the new jar with 50 mL capacity was developed for skincare products and can be adapted for makeup items. 

The amber color enables the glass to filter UV rays, avoiding light absorption. Ideal for light-sensitive products, the amber jar provides enhanced protection that significantly diminishes the possibility of discoloration, shelf life reduction or other adverse effects of UV rays.

In February, Baralan introduced Applicator 15 for bottles with neck 15, its latest in an innovative range of delivery systems for glass packaging. Defined by its novel application device combined with a screw cap, Applicator 15 was developed to offer precision product usage of perfumes, essential oils and certain skincare products. 

Applicator 15 is designed to guarantee precision, releasing the preferred amount of product with greater control during application. This prevents loss of formula and aims to reduce waste, an important factor for luxury perfumes frequently sold in small quantities.

By Kristiana Lalou