Evonik unveils greener packaging for MetAMINO to reduce plastic waste 

GERMANY – Evonik, a global leader in specialty chemicals and animal nutrition, has launched a more sustainable packaging solution for its MetAMINO (DL-methionine) product, marking a significant step toward reducing plastic use and carbon emissions in the feed industry.

The company revealed that its 25-kilogram MetAMINO bags will now be made entirely of paper, eliminating the traditional plastic film layer. 

This shift, which started at Evonik’s Antwerp site, is designed to simplify disposal for customers and support compliance with the European Union’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which targets improved recyclability and reduced environmental impact.

The updated packaging consists of two layers of recyclable paper and meets the EU’s PAP 22 recycling classification. Evonik estimates that at the Antwerp plant alone, this change will prevent 32 tons of polyethylene (PE) waste annually and reduce the packaging’s carbon footprint by 20%.

“Product packaging plays an important role in our company’s efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions and achieve a resource-conserving circular economy,” said Dr. Dirk Hoehler, head of Evonik’s amino acid business. “Packaging must protect the product effectively, but it should do so in the most environmentally friendly way possible.”

Quality and shelf life maintained

The transition to the new bags was preceded by extensive testing to ensure that product integrity remained uncompromised. According to Evonik, the quality of MetAMINO and its 36-month shelf life are unaffected by the packaging change. 

Customers using the new paper bags can expect the same performance benefits that have long defined MetAMINO.

Produced by Evonik in crystalline dry form, MetAMINO is a key feed additive for poultry, swine, ruminants, and aquaculture. It supports optimal growth and meat yield, helps reduce feed costs, and allows for precise dosing thanks to its high purity and consistency.

Its dry composition ensures easy handling and prevents clumping in feed mixers and equipment.

In addition to Antwerp, the company plans to roll out the new paper packaging at its other production sites in Singapore and Mobile, Alabama.

Investment in greener, more efficient production

The packaging announcement comes on the heels of a separate move to bolster the sustainability and efficiency of Evonik’s European methionine production facilities.

Earlier this year, the company committed to a low double-digit million-euro technical upgrade for its Antwerp and Wesseling (Germany) sites.

The upgrades, scheduled between May and July 2025, involved partial shutdowns of both facilities lasting 8 to 10 weeks.

Despite the temporary production pauses, Evonik assured customers that all current contracts and supply commitments would be fulfilled without disruption.

“We are constantly working to further increase the process efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of our three global methionine production hubs,” Hoehler said. “This is how we remain competitive and ensure the highest possible supply security for our customers.”

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