Sustainable food and beverage packaging company OxBarrier has launched its first technology licensing programme to make its single-serve compostable coffee capsule available for the global coffee industry.

The patented technology includes an integrated oxygen barrier to maintain freshness and flavour while addressing the environmental concerns associated with traditional single-serve coffee capsules.

OxBarrier said its intellectual property portfolio has been reinforced by the European Patent Office, which upheld the validity of multiple patents after contentious proceedings.

With patents granted in over 30 countries, including all key European markets, Canada, and Australia, OxBarrier is preparing itself for global partnerships and licensing opportunities.

According to the company, by adopting this compostable technology, companies can meet the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly, high-performance single-serve coffee options.

An estimated 576,000 tonnes of capsule waste is generated each year, and millions end up in landfills, according to Mongabay, 2022; Earth.org, 2024. OxBarrier's compostable capsules may offer a solution to this pressing issue.

OxBarrier managing director Boele Oltmans said: "Single-serve capsules are a symbol of modern convenience, but they have also created a global waste challenge.

"OxBarrier's technology allows brands to offer compostable capsules without sacrificing quality or shelf life. Our goal is to help the industry transition to sustainable single-serve packaging at scale, hence our drive to 'Preserve with Purpose'."

Besides OxBarrier, several packaging companies are making efforts towards sustainable food and beverage packaging.

Earlier this month, Netherlands-based flexible packaging supplier Royal Vaassen, in partnership with UPM Specialty Papers, introduced a range of recyclable barrier paper solutions designed to meet stringent food safety and recyclability standards.