HANNOVER, Germany, April 22, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 20, 2010, PROGANIC(R), a new type of polymer, was awarded the 2010 Biomaterial of the Year innovation prize at the HANNOVER MESSE, the world's greatest technology event. This decision was made by the participants at the 3rd Biomaterials Congress from nova-Institut GmbH, one of the leading institutes in resource management and the sponsor of this congress on biologically-based materials, the biggest in Germany. The decisive factors for the selection were the environment-friendliness and the multiplicity of ways in which this completely biocompatible composite material can be used. This material made of 100% renewable raw materials and minerals, can replace ordinary plastic almost completely. However, this biopolymer, like the wood of fir trees, can be composted within a year, CO2-neutral with no residue, and can be burned in a CO2-neutral fashion as well. The first of our PROGANIC(R) pilot product lines, consisting of a classic indoor watering can and attractive pots and plastic hooks, has been available in leading German home improvement stores since March. We have also arranged for worldwide sales. In addition, Propper GmbH is negotiating with well-known licensees from various industries. The proud award winner is confident that this new accolade will push it forward and invites interested parties to visit the company's site at http://www.proganic.de at any time.

PROGANIC(R) consists entirely of renewable raw materials (glucose and plant wax) and minerals. Even the colours used were made strictly from minerals. As concerns the properties of the product, they are comparable to the plastics usually found in the market: It is extremely durable, safe for use with food, water repellent, and tolerant of ultraviolet light, and it can be easily processed. In addition to durable consumer articles, such as vases, watering cans, trays, bottles, tops, bags and containers of all kinds, it is also suited for production of disposable items, such as disposable cutlery and packaging (up to 80 microns) and for filaments and brushes of all types. In addition, it can be used without restriction for packaging food products and producing children's toys.

PROGANIC(R), with its matchless biocompatibility, contributes to enduring environmental protection as no other product does. It meets European Parliament Food Contact Regulation no. 1935/2004 and meets the requirements of DIN EN 71, Part 3, Safety of Toys. The material can also be biodegraded under DIN-ISO 14851/14852 and therefore meets the European standard in DIN EN 13432. PROGANIC(R) is trademarked by Propper(R) GmbH Co. KG in Rain am Lech. It can be recognized by the quality seal with its green leaf.

Propper GmbH Co. KG is a leading specialist in plastic gardening and household products. The enterprise that has been established in Rain am Lech since 1948 with its ultramodern production facilities at Zittau is known for its original design, its made in Germany quality, and its outstanding value for money. For over 50 years, the company has continued to emphasize its great flexibility, receptiveness to innovation, and the motto Plastic as you like it. The best example of this is PROGANIC(R), its new bioline, which will be introduced worldwide starting in the spring and summer of 2010.

Status as of: April 21, 2010

For additional information, please contact:

Propper GmbH Co. KG, Ms. Kishwar Zuberi, Munchner Strasse 41, 86641 Rain am Lech, telephone +49-9090-969-80, fax +49-9090-969-894, mailto zuberi@propper.de, http://www.propper.de

SOURCE: Propper GmbH

CONTACT: For additional information, please contact: Propper GmbH Co.KG, Ms. Kishwar Zuberi, Munchner Strasse 41, 86641 Rain am Lech, telephone+49-9090-969-80, fax +49-9090-969-894, mailto zuberi@propper.de,