NextCycle IML™ for HDPE bottles, now RecyClass approved!

We are proud to announce that NextCycle IML^TM for HDPE bottles has officially received its RecyClass certification, marking another important milestone in our commitment to advancing sustainable packaging solutions. This certification confirms that our in-mold label technology supports the recyclability of HDPE bottles, contributing to a more circular plastics economy.

This certification proves that innovation and recyclability can go hand in hand. By developing solutions that make recycling easier without compromising design or performance, we’re helping brand owners take a tangible step toward a more sustainable packaging future. 

Nico Van de Walle, Global Product & Circular Economy Manager at MCC Global IML.

The certified label is a PP-based, adhesive-free solution printed with non-bleeding inks. The PP label is not a problem as long as there is a maximum of 50% coverage for bottles under 500 ml and a maximum of 70% coverage for bottles over 500 ml. During the shredding and washing process, the label’s top layer is removed, leaving behind a thin translucent PP layer. This remaining layer is thin enough not to interfere with HDPE recycling, and the light label flakes from the printed top layer are removed from the recycling stream through air elutriation.

With this RecyClass approved solution, converters and brands now have a fully certified, recyclable decoration option for HDPE bottles, offering an innovative alternative to traditional PSL or SSL labels that often complicate the recycling process.

This development opens new opportunities for brand owners striving to achieve recyclability targets, particularly those facing challenges in certifying natural and white HDPE bottles using conventional labeling technologies.