Stora Enso has expanded its food safety credentials after its Oulu pulp mill in Finland achieved FSSC 22000 certification, marking a significant milestone for the country’s pulp industry and reinforcing confidence in food-contact packaging materials.

The internationally recognised certification confirms that the Oulu mill’s food safety management system meets strict global standards for pulp production.

First Finnish Milestone for Pulp Production

The achievement extends food safety coverage across the entire Oulu production chain.

Key highlights include:

• ✅ Oulu pulp mill achieved FSSC 22000 certification
• 📦 Kraftliner production has been certified since 2021
• 🥡 Folding boxboard production received certification in 2025
• 🔄 Since May 2026, the entire Oulu value chain is covered
• 🍽️ Products are suitable for direct food contact
• 🌱 Oulu pulp also meets composting standard requirements

According to Stora Enso, certification demonstrates that food safety principles are embedded throughout daily operations.

Strengthening Confidence in Food Packaging

Matti Lielahti, Head of Stora Enso’s Oulu business unit, said the certification provides customers with additional assurance regarding material quality and reliability.

The mill applies:

• Strict hygiene practices
• Systematic risk management
• Standardised operating procedures
• Continuous employee training
• Comprehensive process monitoring

These measures help ensure consistency throughout production.

Supporting High-Purity Packaging Materials

The Oulu mill primarily uses its own pulp to manufacture board products designed for demanding food applications.

Its portfolio includes:

• Folding boxboard
• Kraftliner
• Paper bag materials
• Unbleached softwood pulp

Manufactured from virgin fibre, these products support the purity requirements increasingly demanded by food packaging customers worldwide.

Nearly all production from the Oulu facility is exported to international markets.

Industry Outlook

As food safety regulations and supply chain transparency requirements continue to evolve, certifications such as FSSC 22000 are becoming increasingly important competitive differentiators.

For packaging producers serving food markets, independently verified food safety systems can strengthen customer trust while supporting compliance across global supply chains.

Source: Stora Enso

Last Updated on 16/06/2026 by Jota Machinery