PEF can be recycled safely and effectively in the current PET stream at concentrations up to 10% by weight.
The approval follows CPBR’s assessment of releaf when used as a barrier layer in multilayer PET bottles. The council concluded that bottles containing PEF can be safely and effectively processed within the existing PET stream at levels of up to 10% by weight. CPBR assigned an overall recyclability rating of A, indicating that PEF-containing bottles are suitable for bottle-to-bottle recycling.
Releaf, produced using YXY technology, met all required physical, chemical, and processability standards, and complies with Japan’s Positive List for food-contact plastics. It also aligns with criteria set by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan and relevant US Food and Drug Administration regulations, ensuring it meets international safety standards for food packaging.
This decision follows previous recognitions of PEF recyclability by the European PET bottle platform and the Association of Plastic Recyclers in the United States, reinforcing its credibility as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
Avantium’s Asia business development manager, Yuzhong Chen, said: “We sincerely thank all the companies in Japan that supported Avantium during the CPBR assessment. Their collaboration was vital in demonstrating that releaf can be successfully recycled within Japan’s PET bottle stream while preserving high material quality. This joint effort underscores a shared commitment to advancing plant-based, recyclable packaging solutions in Japan.”
In addition to the CPBR approval, Avantium signed a joint development agreement in February 2025 with Amcor Rigid Packaging USA to expand the use of releaf in sustainable packaging solutions. This collaboration aims to accelerate the commercialization of PEF-based packaging and increase the adoption of plant-based, recyclable materials globally.
With this approval, Avantium strengthens its position as a leader in renewable polymers and circular packaging solutions. The recognition enables beverage manufacturers in Japan to incorporate releaf in PET bottles confidently, supporting the country’s recycling infrastructure while contributing to a reduction in environmental impact.
Overall, the CPBR clearance and ongoing partnerships signal a significant step toward broader acceptance of plant-based plastics in mainstream packaging. By combining advanced material technology with industry collaboration, Avantium is helping to create scalable, recyclable solutions for the global packaging market.
This development highlights the growing momentum of sustainable materials in food and beverage packaging and reinforces Avantium’s commitment to innovating circular, environmentally friendly solutions.
