The internationally recognised certification confirms that the food safety management system at the Oulu mill meets strict requirements, now also covering pulp production. For customers using board-based packaging for fruit and vegetables, the certification provides additional guarantees that processes are audited, risk management is systematic and food safety is integrated into daily operations.
The Oulu mill’s kraftliner production received FSSC 22000 certification in 2021, followed by folding boxboard production in 2025, when the new consumer board line came into operation. The extension of the certification to pulp production marks another step in the transformation of the Oulu site into one of Europe’s most advanced integrated packaging materials mills.
Food safety across the packaging chain
As demand for renewable packaging continues to grow, fresh produce companies are increasingly looking for materials that combine performance, safety and sustainability. Packaging used for fruit and vegetables must respond not only to logistical and protection needs, but also to stricter requirements around hygiene, food contact and traceability.
“This certification demonstrates the high standards we apply throughout our production process and provides customers with additional confidence in the quality, safety and reliability of the materials they use. Achieving certification for pulp production is a unique milestone in Finland. All products are suitable for direct food contact. In addition, the Oulu mill pulp meets the requirements of the composting standard,” says Matti Lielahti, Head of Stora Enso’s Oulu business unit.
Virgin fibre for food-contact applications
Stora Enso’s Oulu mill uses most of its pulp in its own board machines. The board produced at the site is made from virgin fibre, supporting high quality and purity requirements, particularly in food packaging applications.
This is especially relevant for fresh produce packaging, where the sector is moving towards renewable, recyclable and food-safe alternatives capable of protecting products throughout transport, storage and retail display.
The certification is reflected in the mill’s daily operations through strict hygiene practices, systematic risk management, unified procedures and technical expertise at all stages of production.
“Achieving these milestones reflects the commitment and strong expertise of our team as well as our desire to continuously develop and improve our operations,” adds Lielahti.
An integrated certified production chain
Since May 2026, the entire production chain in Oulu — from the pulp mill to the board machines, sheeting plant and port terminal — has been covered by the new certification.
The mill produces folding boxboard, kraftliners, paper bag material and unbleached softwood pulp. Its boards are suitable for direct contact with food, making them relevant for packaging solutions used across food categories, including fruit and vegetables.
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Nearly all of the mill’s production is exported, strengthening the role of the Oulu site as a supplier of certified, renewable packaging materials for international food and fresh produce markets.
