Wimbledon-based sandwich packaging supplier RAP has launched two plastic-free sandwich wedges.

Freshpack is a folding box carton, which RAP said has been made of “fully sustainable” boards and cellulose film, both of which are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). AgriRap, meanwhile, is made from agriculture waste and cellulose film.

RAP said the new products featured lining film that was outside the scope of the government’s Plastics Regulations and classified as paper/board.

In addition, the wedges are compostable within three to six months via industrial compostable facilities. And, they feature EasyPeel – an adhesive pattern that acts as a peelable tab, allowing consumers to remove the film from the carton board easily before recycling.

“The launch of RAP’s two plastic-free sandwich wedges is a huge breakthrough for the sandwich packaging sector, and is part of our commitment to removing avoidable plastics,” said Julian Money, RAP founder.

“At RAP, we’re passionate about tackling the plastic pollution crisis that we’re currently experiencing as a nation, and we’re actively urging food manufacturers and consumers to commit to using our products with the aim of making a difference for future generations.”

The packaging manufacturer has previously worked with Waitrose to develop triangular sandwich wrappers to make them more easily recyclable. The supermarket said processors were having difficulty separating the plastic film, which is not recyclable, from the recyclable cardboard and RAP’s new packaging was designed to help with this.

Plastic waste is a hot topic right now after documentary series Blue Planet II generated a surge of interest in plastic pollution and its effect on the environment.

The movement has seen the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) launch the UK Plastics Pact to tackle plastic waste. A number of bakery manufacturers, including Allied Bakeries and Premier Foods, were among the initial businesses to sign up to the commitment.