South Korea-based food and biotechnology giant CJ CheilJedang is accelerating its push into the global bioplastics market through its U.S. subsidiary, CJ Biomaterials.
The company has launched a next-generation eco-friendly PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) extrusion coating platform designed for food containers and packaging, offering both repulpability and home compostability. Industry analysts say the move could be a “game changer” amid tightening regulations and growing ESG demands.
The platform, announced on October 2, is suitable for paper and cardboard extrusion coatings. It combines amorphous (aPHA) and semi-crystalline (scPHA) properties to create a stable molten curtain during processing while serving as a barrier against liquids, oils, and fats. The material is fully bio-based and delivers strong adhesion to paper and reliable sealing performance, making it applicable to takeout trays, cups, lids, and other packaging formats.
CJ Biomaterials’ proprietary PHACT™ PHA compounds ensure that the containers can be composted in both home and commercial settings. They also passed repulping tests, offering flexibility across regions with varying composting and recycling infrastructures.
Max Seneschal, Chief Commercial Officer at CJ Biomaterials, said, “Global foodservice companies are increasingly adopting bio-based materials, such as paper and biopolymers, to comply with expanding U.S. extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations. This platform demonstrates how we are accelerating the performance capabilities of new PHA compounds to meet the rising demand for safe and sustainable products.”
PHACT™ PHA converts CO₂ captured from plant sugars into biopolymers through a proprietary fermentation process, producing both amorphous and semi-crystalline PHA simultaneously. The technology has received U.S. FDA food contact approval, TÜV Austria certifications for marine and soil biodegradability, and home and industrial compostability certifications. Additionally, it holds U.S. Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) commercial composting certification and USDA BioPreferred 100% biobased recognition. The material’s biodegradability ensures it leaves no microplastics behind.
The launch positions CJ CheilJedang to expand its footprint in the global sustainable packaging market, particularly in North America, where demand for alternative plastics is surging. CJ Biomaterials plans to continue partnering with global consumer goods and foodservice companies to accelerate the transition to a circular bioeconomy and reduce the environmental impact of industrial packaging.
