Royal DSM, the global life sciences and material sciences company, will showcase its portfolio for flexible food packaging at Pack Expo International 2014 (Nov. 2-5; McCormick Place, Chicago). Part of the portfolio includes DSM's polyamide 6 (Akulon) and thermoplastic copolyester for thin film (Arnitel) for flexible food packaging. DSM says that the products help customers to provide better solutions to the world's rapidly changing food packaging needs, meeting the demand for food safety and reduced food and packaging waste.

Danilo Fioravante, global business director of Akulon DSM Engineering Plastics,says: "The continued growth in the global population, together with changes in lifestyles, has led to a rise in the demand for food and food packaging materials. Food waste caused by inadequate food preservation has aggravated this demand. So there is an increasing need for packaging solutions that keep food safer and extend the shelf life of food."

DSM recently announced plans to invest in a new plant for high viscosity Akulon polyamide 6 grades for film and other extrusion applications in North America. Richard Pieters, president of DSM Engineering Plastics Americas, states: "We are determined to grow further in the packaging industry where we have already proven to meet our customers' demand with our in-depth application know how and innovative solutions. Adding locally produced Akulon polyamide 6 grades for film to our North American portfolio complements our offering and strengthens our position to optimally serve our global and local customers."

Pieters commented further stating: "Meeting consumer demand around the world is our mission. DSM understands the needs of the market and will continue to apply its bright science to find the most sustainable and commercially viable solutions for our customers. Working in partnership with the industry, we will provide customers with functional materials that can reduce the footprint, lower food waste, enhance food safety, and offer cost advantages; bright science for a brighter living."

DSM has developed a portfolio of engineering plastic materials for packaging solutions including Akulon polyamide 6 (PA6) for flexible barrier films and Arnitel thermoplastic copolyester (TPC) for breathable films. These materials are suited for the production of packaging film for fresh foods where they deliver benefits - reducing food waste, as well as improving food quality and convenience of use.