As consumers become heavily focused on the importance of biodegradability and eco-friendliness, manufacturers need to start thinking "green" in all facets of the manufacturing process. Today’s consumers, especially Millennials and younger Gen Z bunch, place high importance on sustainability (Packaging Strategies).
They are scouring store shelves for products that are made and packaged sustainably.
Sustainability, especially in packaging, is a hard subject to ignore. Check out how the packaging experts at L'Oreal are making the switch to sustainable packaging:
As you focus on sourcing sustainable raw materials, don't forget your packaging glue. Gelatin protein glues are biodegradable, recyclable and repulpable - the perfect adhesive for green packaging.
Gelatin Protein-based Glues for Sustainable Packaging
Protein-based natural glues are completely hydro-pulpable by nature of their composition. They are based on gelatin protein which is derived from the hydrolysis of collagen. Collagen is a protein ingredient of animal hide, tissue and bone.
Protein glue is composed of polyamides of alpha-amino acids. The solubility of protein-based glues in water is due in large part to the fact that five of the major constituent amino acids present in glue possess high water solubility. Protein glues are insoluble in oils, waxes, organic solvents and absolute alcohol. They may be emulsified in water-oil or oil-water systems.
The various other raw materials used to compound our glues are from the sugar, starch, polyol and salt families. All of the ingredients used to modify the adhesives are water soluble and in most cases are non-edible grades intended for industrial use. We also utilize edible-grade raw materials, e.g. corn syrup (glucose), sodium chloride (table salt), glycerin USP grade, etc. when required.
Protein Glue Specifications and Technical Data
| Appearance | Translucent amber to white color |
| Available Formats | Cake form or dry |
| Features | Biodegradable, non-toxic, and eco-friendly. Signed to offer suitable tack and open time for a number of varying industries. |
| Uses | Laminating, rigid box, case and carton sealing, assembled products, book binding and more. |
| Operations Temperature | 140-150° F |
| Odor | Neutral to fragrant by addition of re-odorant |
|
Solids (%) |
40-75% (for cake products) 100% (for dehydrated products) |
| Viscosity (CPS) | Varies depending on application. Can be produced with a range of 100 CPS to 35,000 CPS as measured by Brookfield Viscometer. |
| Shelf Life | Approximately 1 year. Must be kept in a cool, dry environment for optimum storage life. |
| Packaging |
6 cakes per carton or 50 lb. bags for dry Average carton weight: 62 lbs. Pallet: 36 cartons per pallet |
To learn more about natural, eco-friendly protein glues contact our technical team today. 
