Packaging system increases the shelf life for fresh-cut produce
The US firm partnered with Paper Pak Industries, a manufacturer of absorbent mediums for the food in…The US firm partnered with Paper Pak Industries, a manufacturer of absorbent mediums for the food industry and Bunzl Distribution, a packaging and supplies distribution company.
The UltraFreshSystem consists of a Sonoco tray and an UltraZapXtendaPak food safety pad from Paper Pak.
The tray is available in North America in white and black with additional plans to increase the range in the future.
Pad and tray combination
It has an insert to channel liquid away from the product while the pad absorbs excess moisture inside the package and emits a steady stream of carbon dioxide, reducing the growth of microorganisms such as yeast and mould.
A pad and the insert maintain the appearance of the fresh-cut product and extend shelf life by slowing the produce's respiration rate, claim the developers.
Design of the tray lowers stacking height, increasing shipping density and reducing costs for shipping and storage, said Sonoco.
Seal speed comparison
The composite surface results in a faster seal at lower temperatures compared to other trays in the marketplace, minimizing the risk of cross contamination and operator liability, they added.
Rodger Fuller, vice president of global rigid plastics at Sonoco, said: "The UltraFreshSystem is a cost-effective package that delivers superior merchandising appeal and extended shelf life.
"Produce processors can also count on less shrink, better margins and reduced packaging costs."
Paper Pak Industries is a manufacturer of absorbent mediums for the food and medical industries, offering standard absorbent food pads.
Bunzl Distribution has more than 70 distribution centres throughout North America and the Caribbean, supplying outsourced packaging and cleaning and safety products to food processors.
