Kraft Heinz has launched a global innovation challenge in the search for new ideas to reimagine sustainable food packaging.

The FMCG has partnered with Rethinking Material Summit, in the latest round of its scheme aimed at inviting start-ups from around the world to pitch ideas for new sustainable food packaging.

The challenge will be looking at flexible packaging solutions for food that are recyclable or compostable, long-lasting and user-friendly, with the winning idea to be launched with the help of Kraft Heinz’s packaging R&D teams.

It is understood the FMCG giant will then aim to collaborate with the winner to identify viable solutions that will advance Kraft Heinz’s packaging portfolio.

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Three finalists are set to be announced in April, while the winner will be revealed in May, receiving feedback from members of Kraft Heinz’s global innovation team.

Kraft Heinz director of packaging and North America R&D fellow Linda Roman said: “We’re excited to partner with Rethinking Materials for this Innovation Challenge.

“At Kraft Heinz, we know collaboration is the key to unlocking solutions for the future of packaging, especially when we’re thinking about all the requirements that food packaging must address: safety of the product, consumer use preferences and options for disposal or reuse once the product has been enjoyed.

“We’re excited to see the innovative solutions start-ups will bring to the table and look forward to supporting them in creating a more sustainable future for food.”

Earlier this week, the food manufacturer appointed Marta Pilczuk as it new UK managing director, in the latest step of its “comprehensive transformation”.