The roots of Kareline composites lie in Joensuu, North Karelia. Around the turn of the millennium, in the wood center called Puugia were developed new composite materials that combined plastics and wood-based fibres. This led to the launch of Kareline Natural Fibre Composites – unique materials made from soft wood-based cellulose fibres and thermoplastic.
The paths of Kareline materials and Kupilka products crossed early on. Event organizers and restaurant owners in northern Finland needed an alternative to traditional wooden cups and dishes. When Finland joined the European Union in 1990’s, hygiene regulations changed. There was a need for machine-washable products that were also practical and suitable for outdoor use. To meet this need, industrial designer Heikki Koivurova, who was behind the composite project, and entrepreneur and innovator Kari Kuisma combined their expertise. The result of this collaboration was a unique outdoor drinking vessel made from Kareline composite – the Kupilka 21 cup. The first Kupilka products were launched in 2003.
In addition to Kupilka products, Kareline natural fibre composites have been used over the years to make Flaxwood guitars, Uitto Board skateboards, and Eko-Aims training weapon grips for optical training pistols. Since 2011, Kareline composites have been manufactured in Pyytivaara, in the same facilities with Kupilka.
WHY NATURAL FIBRE COMPOSITE?
Even today, more than 20 years after the first cup was released, all Kupilka products are made from Kareline natural fibre composite. The material enables the unique features and distinctive look of the products.
Kareline composites are unique materials with many advantages over other materials used in outdoor dishware. Kupilka products made from natural composite are machine-washable and do not absorb taste or smell, thanks to their moisture resistance. The material also has good heat resistance and insulation, so you won’t burn your fingers when enjoying hot drinks from a Kupilka cup. The products are light weight, durable, and long-lasting – ready accompany you from one adventure to the next for years.
In addition to functional benefits, Kareline composites give products a unique, natural appearance. The wood-like pattern suits the traditional design and character of the products, and the surface feels natural and pleasant to the touch.
Using natural fibre composite also helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the products. At least half of the raw materials are bio-based and renewable, and the soft wood-based cellulose fibre comes from certified forest sources. Additionally, our production waste is minimal, as products made from Kareline composite can be grounded and reused in manufacturing. This recycling does not have a negative impact on the quality of the material as the properties of the composite improve up to five recycling cycles.
RELIABLE COMPANIONS FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW
We aim to create durable, practical and long-lasting products. That’s why we continuously develop and research the materials used in manufacturing Kupilka products. We are committed to keeping up with the industry developments and ensuring our products and materials meet all required standards.
By improving the materials used in Kupilka products, we can enhance their features while preserving their unique appearance. Kupilka products are made from custom Kareline BioNFC composite. With the material development, the bio-based content of the material increased from 50 % to 62 %, by replacing part of the plastics with bio-based alternative. The content of soft wood-based cellulose is 50 %. By increasing the share of renewable raw materials, we have been able to reduce the carbon footprint of the products. The improved material also makes the laser engraving and maintenance of the products easier due to its denser surface.
In addition to development, the materials are regularly tested according to EU standards, as food contact materials must meet strict requirements. Since 2006, the materials have been tested in approved external laboratories, with the latest results in late 2023 meeting all requirements.
However, right now we live waiting for news and decisions. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has banned the use of wood fibre and wood flour in food contact materials under its new plastic regulation (regulation (EU) N:o 10/2011, Regulation (EU) 2023/1442). These materials can only be used in the production of biocomposites if the manufacturer applies for and receives specific approval for material in question.
We have applied for permission to continue using the Kupilka material within the deadline and are confidently awaiting a positive decision within year or two. The strict stance of the new regulation surprised many, and the lack of testing methods compliant with the new rules has caused extra work and costs. So far, the new plastic regulation has not distributed our operations, as we are still allowed to manufacture and sell our composite materials and products while waiting for the decision.
Despite the current situation, we look to the future with optimism. Kupilka products are food-safe and can be used safely for both hot and cold drinks and meals. This is backed by years of research and test results that meet all requirements. The products and materials have a history of over 20 years, which speaks for itself. Our products stand the test of time and heavy use, accompanying you from forest to lake, swamp to fell, wilderness to own backyard. This innovative, versatile material with unique properties may hold answers to many future challenges. Who knows where the story of Kareline materials and Kupilka products will lead next?
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