Australia-based Plantic is used in applications including fresh case ready beef, pork, lamb and veal, smoked and processed meats, chicken, fresh seafood and pasta.
Kuraray expects its global sales network will develop its bio-based barrier business in Europe, the US and Asia, responding to a demand for improved freshness, reduced food loss and waste with the use of environmentally friendly material, Plantic film.
In advance of the acquisition, Kuraray signed a contract with Plantic to be the exclusive distributor of Plantic in the Japanese and South Korean markets and began promoting the biomass-based barrier material Plantic film in Japan.
"We in the Kuraray Group are committed to opening new fields of business using pioneering technology and contributing to an improved natural environment and quality of life," a company spokesman said.
Kuraray based in Tokyo, launched the high-performance barrier resin, EVAL (ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer), in 1972. The company claims demand for extension of shelf life for fresh meat and other fresh food is increasing in Japan.