Voith Paper
Past Issues | TAPPI.org | Advertise | Buyers Guide | TAPPI Press Catalog
Travels with Larry Archive

Sonoco Introduces UltraFreshSystem for Fresh-Cut Produce

Print Print this article | Send to Colleague

Sonoco, Hartsville, S.C., USA, along with Paper Pak Industries, La Verne, Calif., a manufacturer of absorbent mediums for the food industry; and Bunzl Distribution, St. Louis, Mo., a global packaging and supplies distribution company, have introduced the UltraFreshSystem™ for packaging fresh-cut produce. The UltraFreshSystem features a custom-designed, thermoformed Sonoco tray combined with an UltraZapXtendaPak food safety pad from Paper Pak Industries.

The tray includes an insert to channel liquid away from the product while the food safety pad absorbs excess moisture inside the package and emits a steady stream of carbon dioxide, reducing the growth of microorganisms such as yeast and mold. Together, the tray and absorbent pad maintain the appearance of the fresh-cut product and extend shelf life by slowing the produce's respiration rate. The result is a fresher, firmer product through the use-by date.

"The UltraFreshSystem is a cost-effective package that delivers superior merchandising appeal and extended shelf life," said Rodger Fuller, VP of Global Rigid Plastics at Sonoco. "Produce processors can also count on less shrink, better margins, and reduced packaging costs."

The unique design of the tray lowers stacking height, increasing shipping density and reducing costs for shipping and storage. The tray's composite surface also results in a better, faster seal at lower temperatures compared with other trays in the marketplace, which minimizes the risk of cross contamination and operator liability. And because it is made with less plastic, the custom-designed tray creates less waste and a smaller carbon footprint.

 

Nalco Company
Sweed Machinery, Inc