Trials carried out by Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) have demonstrated that the fresh produce industry can reduce packaging by around 25 per cent without compromising product quality.
This startling potential reduction in packaging use would also mean fresh produce and packaging suppliers could reduce material costs, waste and greenhouse gas emissions, while meeting retailers’ challenging packaging reduction targets.
The WRAP trials were undertaken in partnership with International Food Partners (IFP), which 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 SealTM hermetic sealing technology, a 25 per cent packaging saving can be made - while at the same time potentially increasing shelf life.
Further material savings are also on the horizon. The Integrity SealTM technology is now being trialled on seals on the backs of salad bags - saving more material and giving bags an even better seal to further extend shelf life.
WRAP project manager Andrew Parry welcomed the news. He said: “The continuing work to develop this technology is proof that packaging optimisation can deliver packaging savings and, by enabling shelf-life extension, potentially reduce food waste.”
He added: “As product, material and waste disposal costs continue to rise, this technology offers a practical step forward for suppliers using flexible film - delivering business, environmental and consumer benefits.”
The news follows the announcement in April that WRAP and Marks & Spencer are working together to trial salad bags using the Integrity SealTM technology. Due to the success of those trials, M&S has now introduced the technology on its iceberg lettuce, Italian and spinach salad lines, with plans to roll out to other products later in the year. The technology is also being tested by suppliers to Asda and other major retailers.
