Group’s absorbent pad for fruit has been approved for recycling by OPRL

UK-based packaging specialist Sirane has announced that its paper-recyclable absorbent pad for fruit has been approved for recycling by OPRL, making it the world’s first approved recyclable absorbent pad.

Sirane Earthpad

OPRL has approved the Earthpad suitable for fruit, as paper-recyclable, Sirane confirmed.

“Sirane has been known for years now as the experts in absorbency, and innovation,” said Simon Balderson, Sirane managing director. ”This product combines the two.

“We’re not aware of any other absorbent pad on the market anywhere in the world that has been approved for recycling, so this is a great step forward,” he continued.

“A lot of fruit is sold in punnets/trays with an absorbent pad, which helps keep the fruit fresher for longer, using EarthPad, the pad insert is now eco-friendly.”

EarthPad is comprised of cellulose absorbent with a paper outer layer applied using barrier coatings, and they are also compostable.

The group said they were available as regular absorbent fruit pads and as cushioned paper-based absorbent pads – Earthpad Soft-Hold – for protecting soft and delicate fruits.

Sirane has completed further independent testing for recyclability, in addition to OPRL approval, and the pads have received further endorsement by the UK Recycling Association.

“Having read the positive results of the repulpability and recyclability testing, according to EN 13430, I am happy to endorse a paper recyclable pad composed of a cellulose absorbent layer with paper applied top and bottom,” noted CEO Simon Ellin.