The growing demand for functional packaging of fresh produce that is suited for automation has prompted StePac L A Ltd to tailor its branded range of Xtend modified atmosphere/modified humidity (MA/MH) packaging solutions to be compatible with both automated bulk and retail packing lines.
This move facilitated the use of substantially leaner packaging films, with multiple benefits of extending fresh produce shelf life, minimising food waste, and reducing the use of plastics, making for more environmentally-responsible green and lean packaging.
The initiative exemplified the company’s concerted efforts to manufacture purposeful plastic packaging solutions that contribute to reducing food waste while having minimal impact on the environment. StePac products will be showcased at Fruit Logistica 2019, slated to take place in Berlin, between February 6 and 8, 2019.
“When analysing the carbon footprint of produce shipped in StePac’s packaging — especially when shipped by sea versus conventional air freight — we see that the packaging has a climate-positive effect; that is, the carbon emission savings resulting from its use exceeds the carbon emissions of the packaging,” said Gary Ward, technical development manager, StePac.
“The transition to automated flowpack packaging significantly reduces the amount of plastic consumed, making the product even more climate positive,” he added.
StePac developed multiple film structures to support the shift to automated MA/MH packaging. For example, the Xflow bulk flowpack film reduces the amount of plastic packaging used by up to 40 per cent, while retaining its unique functions for substantially extending the shelf life of fresh produce in comparison to alternative options or if no packaging is used at all.
The unique Xflow films for automated packaging are currently gaining momentum for packing different types of vegetables for food service in the United States, where the use of StePac’s innovative functional films has been instrumental in boosting both operational throughout and meeting shelf life requirements.
The move to automated packing systems is good news for growers/packers who will enjoy the added benefits of lowered labour costs. The new Xgo line of retail packaging encourages the packaging at source of fresh produce in high-clarity MA/MH films ready for the shelves.
The packaging of fresh goods such as passion fruit (which is particularly sensitive to excess moisture) in such high-performance packaging eliminates the need to sort, grade, and repack upon arrival and allows for their shipment by sea in retail packaging formats. In this case, the importers also benefit from less handling costs. The Xgo line of products for automated packaging includes lidding films (also available in resealable format) and various types of flowpack films.
Multiple factors are driving the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, including increased awareness of the importance of healthy eating as well as population growth. The demand for functional packaging that keeps produce fresh longer and reduces supply chain waste is high.
At the same time, environmental considerations and natural resource constraints are creating the need for leaner recyclable packaging that effectively extends the shelf life for long-distance land and sea transport.
“StePac is attentive to the dynamics of a market displaying an increased demand for more responsible practices without forfeiting on functionality and convenience,” said Ward.
“We have dedicated much of our R&D (research and development) efforts toward adapting and improving our products and systems to meet these needs and create more responsible packaging solutions,” he added.
