Recently, CelluForce, a Canadian biomaterials startup, introduced CelluShield, a barrier covering made of cellulose. This coating represents a major advancement in sustainable packaging innovation, as it promises to improve flexible, recyclable packaging without sacrificing functionality. Strong oxygen and moisture resistance is provided by the water-based coating, which is constructed of renewable cellulose and allows for mono-material structures that may be recycled through current streams.

Sébastien Corbeil, CEO of CelluForce, said in a statement that converters and brand owners no longer have to decide between recyclability and performance. “With CelluShield, we are providing a workable solution that reduces carbon emissions, protects products, and makes recycling easier.” According to the company, the coating complies with European extended producer responsibility regulations, is devoid of dangerous chemicals, and fulfils strict food safety standards. CelluShield was developed in collaboration with FPInnovations and supported by the Transformative Technology Program of Natural Resources Canada.

The Industrial Research Assistance Program of the National Research Council of Canada also provided support. These partnerships demonstrate Canada’s leadership in promoting innovation in environmentally friendly packaging solutions, CelluForce underlined. CelluShield is intended for usage in delicate products such as food and medications. It works with PET, polyethylene, and polypropylene films and can be applied using conventional reverse gravure coating and laminating techniques. Brand owners can achieve 100% recyclable packaging goals, while converters get a turnkey route to recyclable structures without having to invest in expensive retooling.

In the meantime, consumers gain from longer product shelf life due to safer and more environmentally friendly packaging. CelluShield supports circular economy objectives and waste reduction initiatives by substituting recyclable materials for multilayer laminates. For simpler supply chain adoption, the product is offered as a precoated film or as a ready-to-use coating. CelluForce, a Montreal-based company founded in 2010, runs the largest cellulose nanocrystal production in the world, generating 300 tonnes a year. Domtar, SLB, Suzano, FPInnovations, and Investissement Quebec are among its shareholders.