UPM extends PFAS-free barrier technology to label face papers

UPM Specialty Materials has launched UPM Asendo 80, a grease-resistant label face paper that applies the company's packaging-paper barrier technology to labels for the first time without using PFAS. The 80 gsm grade targets food-contact and grease-sensitive label applications such as olive oil packaging, following the EU's PPWR PFAS restriction on food-contact packaging, which took effect on 12 August 2026. The paper is FSC or PEFC certified and meets FDA and German BfR food-contact requirements.

Why this mattersPFAS-free validated face papers give label converters a route to compliant food-contact products as EU rules tighten and give paper an edge over film alternatives.

• UPM Asendo 80 is an 80 gsm label face paper extending UPM's barrier paper technology to labels for the first time
• The grade does not use PFAS chemistry and each production stage is tested by independent third-party laboratories
• EU PPWR restriction on PFAS in food-contact packaging became applicable across the EU on 12 August 2026
• Product meets FDA and German BfR food-contact requirements and is available FSC or PEFC certified
• Compatible with a range of adhesive types and suited to UV Flexo and UV-inkjet printing
• Target applications include olive oil packaging and other grease-sensitive food-contact labels
• UPM Asendo 80 has been filed to demonstrate compliance with EU PPWR requirements
• UPM is extending barrier paper, already used in flexible packaging, food inlays and its Asendo 80 grease-resistant label paper, into self-adhesive label stock, per Label and Narrow Web, 22 September 2026
• No technical data sheet, basis weights, barrier specifications, adhesive-compatibility data or pricing have been disclosed for the new self-adhesive grade