The Covid-19 round-up

Iceland packaging tests delayed due to virus

Speaking to The Grocer, Iceland MD Richard Walker said that Iceland is investigating into how the pandemic has affected consumer habits and presented challenges to food waste. He also said that packaging testing has been delayed due to Covid-19.

Indian government to allow pre-printed packaging

The Indian government is allowing businesses to use pre-printed packaging materials until 30 September amid the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic. Under usual law, re-labelling is not permitted in the country. Sectors that are expected to benefit from this ruling include pharmaceutical, food and FMCG.

2 million

Renewable fibre-based packaging products supplier International Paper has pledged to donate two million corrugated boxes to Covid-19 relief efforts. The boxes will benefit various hunger-relief organisations including Feeding America, The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN) and other relief agencies.

2,000

Global consumer packaged goods company BIC is using its facility in Connecticut, US to produce 2,000 medical-grade, FDA-approved face shields per day using plastic packaging materials and scrap plastic. 

500,000

UK-based producer of PET resin Alpek Polyester (APUK) is focusing its supply on providing PPE for the NHS. The company will be focusing on producing face shields instead of the usual drink packaging and food trays.

Mondi to build new production lines 

Packaging and paper manufacturer Mondi has revealed plans to construct new production lines dedicated to the production of melt-blown nonwoven fabric and surgical face masks in its facility in Gronau, Germany.