Berkshire Labels launches 100 per cent biodegradable label

Berkshire Labels Ltd has launched BioTAK, a 100 per cent biodegradable label made from renewable and replenishable resources, incorporating a completely biodegradable adhesive and face material.

The company is currently working towards gaining EN13432:2000 accreditation for the BioTAK range, the European Composting and Biodegradable Packaging Standard by October 2006.

The company said in a statement: ‘Up until this new adhesive technology other “biodegradable” labels in the marketplace have only been able to use a lower coat weight of standard adhesive which will of course not biodegrade.’

Berkshire Labels Ltd started its research for a completely biodegradable label back in 2001, recognizing the need to start providing environmentally-friendly alternatives within the packaging industry. Currently half of all household waste which ends up in landfill accounts from a purchase from a retailer or a convenience store.

BioTAK has been launched with four face materials, a White Semi Gloss Paper and a Brown Kraft Paper, both of which are sourced from Forestry Management Principles and suitable for home and industrial composting. Also two clear films, Natureflex, a cellulose wood pulp, suitable for home and industrial composting and a PLA, a biodegradable polymer derived from corn, suitable for industrial composting. 

‘The biodegradable adhesive we have produced is a permanent adhesive and although not suitable for all product areas has performed extremely well in many different environments including chilled, dairy and the toiletries sector,’ continued the statement. ‘We will be looking to expand the BioTAK range to incorporate additional face materials and fit for purpose adhesives in the near future.’