The move from plastic in the fruit and veg sector is fuelling demand for fibre-based packaging solutions, according to MM Packaging Deeside. Tax and legislative changes have opened untapped potential for cartonboard formats, such as punnets, baskets and trays.
A shift in thinking from food producers and supermarkets stems from UK Extended Producer Responsibility reforms and the Plastic Packaging Tax. Both are pushing brands and retailers into a rethink, specifically around the recyclability of their packs. In fruit and veg, this has increased interest in a raft of new innovations that have hit the market.
Julian Freeman, MM Packaging Deeside Managing Director, said: “More and more businesses want options away from plastic and, in the fruit and veg market, it’s no different. We’re seeing customers look more seriously at innovative fibre-based packaging formats offering recyclability and complete protection for the product.
“There is so much untapped potential in this market. When the legislative direction of travel is plastic reduction and using recyclable materials, brands and retailers are looking into relevant and innovative alternatives.”
MM Packaging Deeside has a wide range of options for fruit and veg producers in its portfolio, covering everything from trays, boxes, baskets and its Fresh Flow Packaging branded line-up. Each caters for specific demands from coping with heavy weights and ease of use, to engaging graphics and keeping the products fresher for longer.
Julian Freeman added: “The solutions we offer can be adapted to suit many different applications to protect and promote fruit and veg products, within sustainable fibre-based packaging. In addition, our cartons give brands an opportunity to include creative printing techniques to make the pack stand out on shelf.”
MM Packaging’s trays come in a variety of formats. The sealed tray incorporates holes in the side to allow air circulation to keep the produce fresh. It also closes on top with a sealed foil on the carton edges to prevent the product from falling out.
FreshFlow Packaging formats include crates, cases, punnets with lids or handles, clickboxes and climbing towers. The crate is suitable for bigger fruit or vegetables while punnets incorporate handles or a lid.
In addition, boxes and baskets can add large windows for ideal product visibility, requiring no plastic wrap and can be easily erected and filled at the customer’s site.
The fruit and veg range of fibre-board cartons strengthens MM Packaging’s offer in the food market. The business recently launched GreenPeel, which targets applications including chilled and frozen meals, fish, meat and fresh salads. It’s pitched at those seeking to reduce plastic thanks to its use of recyclable board alongside a removable liner. GreenPeel was a hit with visitors to this year’s Packaging Innovations and Empack show in Birmingham.