A 25% reduction in fresh produce packaging will not compromise product quality

11-Sep-07

Recent trials by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme) have demonstrated that the fresh produce industry can reduce packaging by around 25% without compromising product quality. This reduction in packaging also means fresh produce and packaging suppliers can reduce material costs, waste and greenhouse gas emissions while meeting retailers' challenging packaging reduction targets. The new trials were undertaken by International Food Partners (IFP), who developed the technology in conjunction with Ceetak Ltd - a UK company specialising in flexible film sealing systems. They have shown that by combining thinner gauge film on salad bags with the new Integrity Seal™ hermetic sealing technology, a 25% packaging saving that potentially increases shelf life can be made. Trials of the Integrity Seal™ technology are being tried on seals on the backs of salad bags - saving more material and giving bags an even better seal to further extend shelf life. The Integrity Seal™ technology relies on rapid cycles of impulse heat and chilling to close flow-wrapped bags, creating a better, stronger seal than crimping while using less material.