Nippon Paper’s ‘SHIELDPLUS®’ Adopted for Uonuma Koshihikari Rice Packaging

Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd. announced that its paper-based barrier material “SHIELDPLUS®” has been adopted in new rice packaging developed for Uonuma Koshihikari products sold by Zennoh Pearl Rice Co., Ltd..

The packaging was jointly developed with Zennoh Pearl Rice and Ishikawa Co., Ltd.. The new “rice-specific” paper packaging is designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining product quality. Adoption will begin in May 2026, with products to be rolled out at mass retailers across Japan.

The development comes amid increasing pressure on the food industry to reduce plastic use. The companies stated that the initiative aims to lower plastic consumption in rice distribution while preserving the aroma and quality of the rice.

According to the announcement, the new packaging uses SHIELDPLUS®, a paper barrier material created by applying a water-based coating layer to paper substrates. This structure provides barrier properties that help protect contents while maintaining quality.

Compared with conventional packaging, the new design reduces plastic usage by approximately 38% for 2 kg products and about 15% for 5 kg products, based on weight per square meter. The material also improves oxygen barrier performance and aroma retention for smaller pack sizes.

In addition to environmental and functional benefits, the packaging has been designed for usability, with features such as easier opening, improved stability, and handling suited for measuring rice.

The initiative reflects Nippon Paper’s broader efforts to expand paper-based alternatives to plastic packaging as part of sustainability-focused product development.