Ahlstrom-Munksjö launches a new fiber-based solution for paper straws

AHLSTROM-MUNKSJÖ OYJ PRESS RELEASE April 24, 2019 at 09:00 

Ahlstrom-Munksjö launches CelluStrawTM, a new fiber-based solution for drinking paper straws, enabling the food industry to provide consumers an alternative to single-use plastic straws.

Ahlstrom-Munksjö contributes to a better everyday life by providing solutions that make the end product more sustainable, utilizing renewable materials that are alternatives to non-renewables; an important driver in several markets. The launch of CelluStrawTM is a good example of Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s capabilities in sustainable fiber-based solutions.

“Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s CelluStrawTM solution has been specially designed to address the emerging initiatives to phase out single-use plastic straws. Paper-based materials will enable key players of the food industry, such as fast-food chains, to demonstrate their high level of commitment to better protection of the environment, while continuing to offer a convenient drinking experience to consumers.” commented Brian Oost, VP Product Management and Marketing Food Packaging, Specialties Business Area.

The CelluStrawTM offering consists of specialty paper grades respectively developed for the inner and outer plies of paper straws. CelluStrawTM runs particularly well on high-speed converting machines. Its high wet-strength and mechanical resistance delivers good product integrity, ensuring paper straws remain in excellent condition once converted and will withstand in liquids for a sufficient time. CelluStrawTM is made of responsibly sourced natural fibers, is renewable, biodegradable and safe for food contact. It is recommended for cold drink end-uses.

“Since our North American plants have joined forces with Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s global platform, we are better aligned to support these types of sustainability initiatives,” said Robyn Buss, VP Sales and Marketing, North America Specialty Solutions. “For the paper straw market, we operate a global technology platform with sites located in Europe and the United States, and this collaboration is just another example of the business synergy potential we plan to realize.”

For further information, please contact:

Johan Lindh, Vice President, Group Communications and Investor Relations, +358 10 888 4994, johan.lindh@ahlstrom-munksjo.com
Addie Teeters, Marketing Communication & Media Relations Manager, North America Specialty Solutions, +1 920 766 8304,  addie.teeters@ahlstrom-munksjö.com

Ahlstrom-Munksjö in brief

Ahlstrom-Munksjö is a global leader in fiber-based materials, supplying innovative and sustainable solutions to its customers. Our mission is to expand the role of fiber-based solutions for sustainable every day life. Our offering includes filter materials, release liners, food and beverage processing materials, decor papers, abrasive and tape backings, electrotechnical paper, glass fiber materials, medical fiber materials and solutions for diagnostics as well as a range of specialty papers for industrial and consumer end-uses. Our annual net sales is about EUR 3 billion and we employ some 8,000 people. The Ahlstrom-Munksjö share is listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki and Stockholm. Read more at www.ahlstrom-munksjo.com.