Products & Services
June 16, 2025
SWM International accelerates global transition with Fluor-Free paper portfolio
After three years of dedicated development and a series of various tests in collaboration with customers in Brazil and abroad, SWM is taking a significant step forward in its journey toward safe, sustainable, and high-performance solutions. Beginning in July 2025, the company will fully transition its portfolio of oil and grease resistant (OGR) papers produced in Brazil to a Fluor-Free formula, delivering the same machinability, printability, and thermal performance that customers expect.
Aligned with Global Trends and Regulatory Expectations
The Fluor Free paper line is already successfully marketed in the United States, where it has been well-received by customers seeking alternatives that combine safety, performance, and sustainability. SWM’s transition in Brazil reflects the company’s focus on listening to market needs and anticipating future demands. The move aligns Brazilian production with international standards, as seen in North America, where manufacturers have already shifted to Fluor Free solutions in accordance with agreements with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Similarly, the European Union is set to require Fluor Free products by 2026.
Although no such regulatory requirement currently exists in Brazil, SWM is proactively advancing to meet the expectations of global and local brand owners who are increasingly committed to offering safe, sustainable packaging. By leading this change, SWM helps customers stay ahead of emerging regulations and market trends.
Commitment to Sustainability, Safety, and Responsible Sourcing
SWM’s Fluor Free portfolio will offer a range of oil and grease resistance levels to meet diverse application needs. Importantly, these papers will continue to be made from eucalyptus fibers that are 100% natural and sourced from certified, sustainable forestry operations (FSC® and PEFC).
While SWM’s current OGR products already meet stringent food safety standards—using approved PFA fluoropolymers and free from substances of concern like PFOA and PFNA—the company recognizes the environmental challenges posed by PFAs, which are known for their persistence in the environment. The transition to Fluor Free solutions demonstrates SWM’s commitment to reducing the use of substances that degrade slowly in nature, helping protect ecosystems and contribute to a healthier planet.
Customer-Centered Innovation and Market Benefits
The development of the Fluor Free portfolio is the result of an intensive, collaborative process that brought together SWM’s research and development, industrial, regulatory, commercial, and marketing teams. Customers played a central role throughout this journey, with their feedback shaping the final solution to ensure it meets technical requirements while adding value to their brands.
This transition delivers several important benefits across the value chain: it ensures compliance with tightening global regulations; aligns products sold in Brazil with international sustainability benchmarks; supports brand owners in achieving their environmental and compliance goals; and eliminates the use of persistent substances, contributing to long-term environmental protection.
Supporting Customers Through the Transition
SWM is fully prepared to support customers at every stage of the transition. The company will provide technical guidance, educational materials, and close collaboration to ensure a smooth, confident shift to the Fluor Free portfolio. This initiative reflects SWM’s ongoing commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and delivering safe, high-quality paper solutions designed for the future of food packaging.
