Print

 

In the push for plastic-free packaging, French specialist and PulPac licensee Hébert Group has teamed with ANDRITZ to scale up Dry Molded Fiber production. Located in Orgelet, France, the family-owned company has long championed responsive, high-quality consumer packaging.

Consumers and brand owners are increasingly demanding alternatives to conventional plastic packaging. The Hébert Group specializes in the development and manufacture of custom-molded packaging solutions for leading European and global brands across the food, dairy, cosmetics, and reuse sectors. The group is acutely aware of the challenges being faced to offer more sustainable packaging.

Julien Hébert, Chief Commercial Officer at the Hébert Group, says, “We listen closely to our customers to create products that are chosen by the top names in the food and cosmetics industries. In the course of these discussions, we have gained a deeper understanding of their expectations regarding sustainable development.

“This approach has naturally driven us to diversify our technologies, creating new opportunities and strengthening our position as a pioneer into other raw materials and environmentally friendly processes.”

After intense market analysis in 2020, the company began to look deeply into the groundbreaking technology of Dry Molded Fiber made from natural cellulose fibers. By 2023 the group had set up a dedicated building and ecosystem along with installation of its first Dry Molded Fiber line.

“We pride ourselves in our approach to sustainability in our manufacturing processes, which are energy and water efficient and where we can use materials of renewable or recycled origin that are free from fossil fuels,” continues Julien Hébert. “And this is why we have made the decision to add Dry Molded Fiber to our process offerings.”

To launch its Dry Molded Fiber journey, the group formed a separate business unit in 2023 – Herpulp – and since then has invested in several first-generation Modula lines incorporating ANDRITZ Dan-Web mill-to-web forming technology. In 2024, ANDRITZ stepped in to support the group with a dedicated expert team to complete the commissioning and stabilize process and product consistency. Throughout 2025 the Hébert Group benefited from technical visits, parameter optimization, and process upgrades including the signing of a comprehensive service contract. The service contract enables ANDRITZ to continue supporting the Hébert Group during the commissioning of the lines, with the objective being to achieve a Site Acceptance Test (SAT) and ensuring proper and reliable operation of the lines.

Mathieu Hébert, Chief Operating Officer at the Hébert Group says, “Fiber integration began even before the installation of our first line in Orgelet, with the construction of a dedicated facility designed to prevent any risk of crosscontamination. Today, we are incorporating this activity into the scope of our standards and, in the long term, aim to position this technology as a complement to our core business, allowing us to extend our product portfolio and meet a wider range of customer requirements.

“We have been supported in this process by the experienced ANDRITZ team that is highly dynamic, motivated, and committed. Customer feedback is already highlighting the cost effectiveness, high quality finishing, and unique premium perception of our Dry Molded Fiber products.”

The company currently produces trays and lids using Dry Molded Fiber technology under its Herpulp brand name and is investigating deep-draw products for production in the future.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE: PARTNERSHIPS ARE ESSENTIAL

Regulatory pressure to phase out single-use plastics, rising customer expectations, and the need to maintain cost and performance standards are all challenges for the future. Packaging specialists are on the front line. Success requires strong technology partners who not only supply equipment but actively support optimization and long-term service.

“We strongly believe in the Dry Molded Fiber concept as a way to scale up sustainable packaging, even more so since we started working with ANDRITZ,” says Julien Hébert. “For us, this partnership represents an excellent opportunity for several reasons: ANDRITZ’s extensive experience in providing complete industrial solutions to the pulp and paper industry, technical support in project management, and strong market demand for this type of packaging solution.

“Our next ambitions together include lowering the cost to the market, securing the stabilization of production lines, and co-developing molds tailored to the Dry Molded Fiber technology.”

The Hébert Group-ANDRITZ collaboration is a clear example of how targeted investment, technical expertise, and shared vision can deliver truly sustainable packaging that is better for the planet - without compromising quality or speed.

WHAT DOES ANDRITZ OFFER FOR SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS?

Bruno Roche, Senior Vice President, ANDRITZ Nonwoven & Textile, explains:

Replacing single use plastic by natural cellulosic fibers is definitely the most sustainable path forward for packaging. Dry Molded Fiber is made industrially possible by combining well-known, proven technologies – Airlaid forming, nonwoven converting, and thermo-forming – all recognized solutions within the ANDRITZ portfolio, now integrated into a seamless industrial process that significantly reduces water and energy consumption while supporting recyclable and circular packaging solutions.

For ANDRITZ, Dry Molded Fiber is a natural extension of its long-standing DNA, rooted in decades of expertise in pulp, paper, and tissue technologies. The opportunity is substantial: even a fraction of single-use plastic packaging converted to fiber would justify new pulp mill investments — at the core of ANDRITZ's businesses. Economically viable Dry Molded Fiber starts with affordable, fit-for-purpose raw materials, where ANDRITZ brings both vast expertise and a full suite of sustainable energy solutions. Add to this our proven industrial know-how in scalable pressing and molding – drawn from our position in the automotive sector – and ANDRITZ is uniquely placed to industrialize Dry Molded Fiber at the scale brand owners require. With pioneers like Hébert Group, we are building this value chain together, with ambition and humility.

To accelerate Dry Molded Fiber industrialization, ANDRITZ has invested in a complete Airlaid Dry Molded Fiber Technical Center in the "Cellulose Valley" in Grenoble, France, purpose-built to support pioneers like Hébert Group from day one. Proximity and deep collaboration between our teams create a unique advantage: solutions validated in a full industrial environment in Orgelet, from fiber formulation and forming through to mold validation and end-product applications.

Through its Solution as a Service concept, ANDRITZ de-risks innovation under strict confidentiality — helping producers move with confidence from pilot trials to fullscale turnkey DMF lines, and from ambition to market.

BUILDING THE DRY MOLDED FIBER ECOSYSTEM TOGETHER

PulPac works closely with licensees, machine partners, and technology partners to industrialize Dry Molded Fiber and bring fiber-based applications to market. The progress made by Hébert Group and ANDRITZ is an important example of how this ecosystem moves forward in practice, combining industrial commitment with application know-how, process insight, and scalable machine technology.

“Dry Molded Fiber is moving forward because committed people and companies are making it happen. Together with licensees like Hébert Group and machine partners like ANDRITZ, we are building the industrial foundation needed to scale the technology. This is how Dry Molded Fiber moves from ambition to industrial reality,” says Sanna Fager, Chief Commercial Officer at PulPac.

 
Print

 

Givaudan will showcase its latest breakthroughs in natural colours and functional ingredients at the IFT 2026 Annual Event and Expo under the theme “The Sky’s the Limit.” Drawing on deep consumer insight and technological leadership, Givaudan invites attendees to explore how collaborative innovation can elevate food and beverage experiences across colour, flavour, and functionality.

Research reveals how consumers perceive colour in their wellness journey

New research by Givaudan Sense Colour, in partnership with Bellomy, has uncovered how consumers’ attitudes toward colour influence their choices when companies transition from synthetic to natural ingredients. According to Kim Duncan, Head of Consumer Insights for Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing North America, “While taste remains the top driver of purchase behaviour, colour plays a powerful secondary role, shaping perceptions of flavour, quality, and health.”

The study found that across food and beverage categories:

85% of consumers ranked flavour/taste among their top three purchase drivers.

More than half of surveyed consumers perceive products with natural colours as healthier.

60% said they would expect to increase their consumption of products perceived as naturally coloured.

These insights reinforce that successful colour reformulation requires more than matching shade; it means understanding consumer expectations around health, cost, and taste perception.

Calming Ele-mint: a non-alcoholic mojito featuring flagship lemon balm ingredient and new natural blue colour

At the Givaudan booth (#2028), visitors can experience the Calming Ele-mint, a refreshing lemon balm and mint beverage designed for its calming appeal and ability to delight the senses. It embodies Givaudan’s commitment to helping customers formulate for both function and emotion. This refreshing beverage is powered by Zensera™, Givaudan’s patent-pending lemon balm extract clinically shown to offer same-day support for mental clarity and focus under stress. Complemented by the soothing hue of Everzure® Galdieria Green Blend, which was recently approved by the FDA, along with zesty lime, mint, and rum-type flavours, this lightly sweetened dry mix delivers a balanced and serene sensory experience.

Introducing the Synthetic Replacement Hub

Givaudan will also be introducing its upcoming Synthetic Replacement Hub, an interactive new online space where visitors can learn, explore, and co-create strategies for replacing synthetic colours and ingredients. The initiative merges Givaudan’s colour science and formulation support to help customers accelerate their transition to natural alternatives without compromising product integrity or consumer satisfaction.

Exclusive presentation on the challenges of increased demand for clean-label

Givaudan expert Catherine Vinci will be participating in a Hot Topics Studio presentation entitled ‘What Are the Challenges With Increased Demand for Natural and Clean-Label Ingredients?’ on Monday, July 13, 2026 from 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM at Exhibit Hall A: Hot Topics Studio Stage. The session will explore the sourcing, cost, and formulation challenges of meeting rising global demand for natural and clean-label ingredients, offering practical insights into how manufacturers are balancing consumer expectations with operational realities.

Join us at IFT 2026: The Sky’s the Limit

Visitors can meet Givaudan’s experts across colour, flavour, and wellness ingredients, explore cross-category innovations, and experience co-creation firsthand from July 12–15 at booth #2028 at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, Chicago. Together, we’ll redefine what’s possible in taste, colour, and wellbeing.

 
Print

 

Richmond, B.C. (June 16, 2026) — As temperatures begin to climb across B.C., WorkSafeBC is reminding employers to prepare now for risks associated with summer weather before conditions become hazardous.

“Heat, UV exposure and wildfire smoke pose health risks for workers, and conditions can change quickly,” said Todd McDonald, head of Prevention Services at WorkSafeBC. “Don’t wait for a heat wave or smoky skies to start planning for these hazards. Employers should have a plan in place now and must engage workers and joint health and safety committees in the planning process.”

As part of its prevention work this summer, WorkSafeBC officers will check that employers have assessed these risks and implemented appropriate controls.

Plan ahead for heat exposure

The risk of heat stress is higher in certain occupations and sectors, both indoors and outdoors. Outdoor workers in industries such as construction, agriculture, transportation, and public works are at higher risk. Heat stress can also affect those working in indoor environments such as kitchens, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities, particularly those without air conditioning.

Heat stress can lead to serious health effects. Risk increases with factors such as high humidity, radiant heat from equipment, limited air movement, physically demanding work, protective clothing, and individual factors such as hydration, fitness level, or certain medications.

Employers should assess heat stress risks based on workplace conditions, job demands, and any factors that may increase a worker's susceptibility to heat-related illness.

Once risks are identified, employers should:

• Monitor workplace conditions and reassess regularly.
• Provide cool drinking water and regular rest breaks.
• Set up shaded or cooled recovery areas.
• Schedule strenuous work during cooler parts of the day.
• Improve ventilation and cooling in indoor work areas.
• Rotate workers between hotter and cooler environments.
• Train workers to recognize the early signs of heat stress in themselves and others and how to seek first aid. Symptoms can include excessive sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, weakness, dizziness, agitation, or confusion.
• Encourage workers to report symptoms early and speak up if conditions become unsafe.

Protect workers from wildfire smoke

Wildfire smoke can affect air quality across the province. Employers should treat smoke exposure as a workplace hazard and be ready to respond as conditions worsen.

Employers should:

• Monitor air quality and weather forecasts.
• Adjust work schedules, pace, or location when smoke levels rise.
• Reduce strenuous outdoor work when possible.
• Ensure ventilation systems are working properly and replace filters as needed.
• Ensure any respirators used are approved for the hazard and properly fit-tested.

Protect workers from UV exposure

During the summer months, outdoor workers also face risks associated with UV exposure. Prolonged sun exposure can cause skin damage — making outdoor workers 3.5 times more likely to develop skin cancer than indoor workers.
Risk can be reduced by monitoring the UV index, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible.

Resources:
WorkSafeBC resources help employers and workers prepare for summer conditions:

• New: Heat stress warning poster
Heat stress
Heat stress screening tool
Methods for measuring heat strain or stress
Wildfire smoke: Frequently asked questions
Sun and UV radiation

 
Print

 

[SURREY, BC, JUNE 19TH—] Reflecting Ishida Canada’s ongoing improvements to country-wide operations, the company is pleased to announce the promotion of David Parussini to National Service Manager.

In this new capacity, David oversees the technical service department, managing a team of service engineers and technicians. His responsibilities include supervising technical training, managing client service interactions, and developing preventative maintenance programs to optimize Ishida equipment performance across Canada.

David previously served as Service Technician and then Senior Service Engineer at Ishida Canada. Since joining the company in 2016, David has successfully secured new annual service contract revenue, strengthening long-term customer partnerships and expanding recurring business opportunities. He has also played a pivotal role in Ishida Canada's strategic growth by helping facilitate the launch of a new facility in Calgary and the addition of the company’s first Alberta-based team member, enhancing local support for customers and creating a stronger presence in Western Canada.

“David's combination of operational excellence and commitment to customer success exemplify the values that drive Ishida Canada's continued growth,” said Bill Taylor, President. “We are excited to recognize his contributions and look forward to his ongoing leadership as we continue expanding our service organization across the country.”

For more information on roles at Ishida Canada and to apply, interested candidates may visit www.ishidacanada.ca/careers.

 
Print

 

CALGARY, AB, June 18, 2026 /CNW/ - Factor Meals, Canada's leading ready to eat meal brand, has officially opened a new 50,000 sq. ft. kitchen and distribution centre in Calgary, Alberta. The state-of-the-art facility establishes localized production in Western Canada, serving as a milestone in unlocking nationwide delivery for the brand this Fall.

Initially launched in 2022 to serve Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes, the Calgary expansion allows Factor Meals to seamlessly scale its dietitian-approved, chef-crafted meal deliveries from coast to coast.

"Activating our Calgary kitchen is a critical piece of the puzzle for Factor Meals in Canada," said Ian Brooks, CEO of HelloFresh Canada, Factor Meals' parent company. "This facility positions us to achieve national service in the coming months, bringing fresh, nutritious, and convenient meals to millions of new households across the Western provinces."

The facility represents a major economic investment in the region, creating 400 new jobs across production, logistics, and management. The launch was supported by $3.6 million in provincial and federal funding, including $2.3 million from an Alberta Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit (APITC) and $1.3 million from a Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (SCAP) grant.

Tara Sawyer, Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, emphasized the impact of this regional integration. "Factor Meals' new facility is a prime example of how Alberta is attracting major investment in value-added processing. The Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit and the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership help companies establish and grow in our province while taking advantage of some of the best agricultural inputs in the world. Investments like this support local farmers, strengthen our ag sector and help meet the growing demand for high-quality agri-food products."

Calgary Mayor Farkas echoed the sentiment on the local impact. "Calgarians will benefit directly from this investment as Factor Meals expands in our city, creating hundreds of jobs and strengthening our local economy. This expansion reflects Calgary's continued growth as a destination for investment, where companies are choosing to scale, invest and be part of a city that is diversifying and building long-term economic strength."

Invest Alberta and Calgary Economic Development were instrumental in bringing this investment to life, providing Factor Meals with direct access to local supply chains, skilled talent, and government resources critical to establishing and scaling operations in the Calgary region.

"Factor Meals' decision to expand in Calgary reflects the momentum we're seeing across sectors where local innovation is transforming how we produce, move and deliver goods, including food-tech and agri-processing. With a competitive cost environment, room to scale, a highly skilled workforce and strong partnerships, Calgary offers what businesses need to scale with confidence." Said Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development.

The facility will also integrate deeply with the regional agricultural supply chain, utilizing provincial incentives to advance the Province's agricultural sector.

"Factor Meals' investment underscores the growing strength of Alberta's integrated supply chain—from locally produced ingredients to advanced food processing and distribution. By choosing Alberta as a base for their Western Canada operations, HelloFresh and Factor are helping improve access to high-quality, affordable food options for consumers across the region. Invest Alberta is pleased to support companies making meaningful, lasting investments that connect our agricultural strengths with innovative food solutions and deliver tangible benefits to households," said Invest Alberta, Acting CEO, Keith Bradley.

Kevin Marban, General Manager of Factor Meals, confirmed that the facility is already operational and heavily focused on this regional network. "With 400 new roles, this facility allows us to work closely with local suppliers while delivering fresh meals directly to customers' doorsteps across Western Canada," Marban said. "We're incredibly grateful for the partnership with the city and the Province and look forward to continuing to support the local community."

Inside the State-of-the-Art Calgary Kitchen

The facility operates as a large-scale commercial kitchen and production site designed to prepare high-quality meals fresh daily. Built to support premium flavour development, freshness, and strict food safety, the infrastructure includes advanced industrial ovens, grills, braisers, and blast-chilling capabilities. To seamlessly manage the supply chain from raw ingredients to final fulfillment, the site features extensive commercial-scale warehouse space with dedicated receiving docks for fresh-cut produce and proteins. The operation utilizes multiple temperature-controlled zones and ambient storage to maintain strict cold-chain integrity.

Community Partnerships

Beyond economic development, Factor Meals is establishing local food rescue initiatives to distribute surplus ingredients and meals to residents experiencing food insecurity. The brand has partnered with Second Harvest nationally, alongside local organizations including the Calgary Food Bank and the Community Kitchen Program of Calgary.

Learn more about Factor Meals at www.factormeals.ca

 

Page 1 of 32

<< Start < Prev 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Next > End >>