Food film for fresher fruit

The film is likely to be popular with many consumers, who are increasingly turning towards apparently fresh and "healthy" produce that is nevertheless packaged in an easy-to-reach and convenient format. "The new film will be especially important to manufacturers offering products that contain fresh ingredients, which are increasingly popular on menus,"​ stated Randy Scott, vice president of marketing. He said the film prevents flavour and aroma from transferring through packaging. The new film is also environmentally friendly, he added, as the amount of film needed per product is reduced. "Greater convenience, maintaining product freshness and sustainability are major trends driving all markets,"​ he said. "Flexible packaging allows manufacturers to address each of these issues in a positive way, which helps build brand preference and customer loyalty." ​ As well as fresh fruit and vegetables, the film can also be used for liquid items such as soup, beverage syrups, juice, marinated products and sauces. Many companies are investing in new packaging for food, as manufacturers are looking for environmentally friendly, practical film that complies with regulatory demands. Recent innovations include the US Agricultural Research Service's (ARS) new biofilm made from dairy and biofuel by-products, and a new oxygen barrier film made by Swedish company Xylophane. Researchers in the UK are also carrying out research into films made using nanotechnology. At Sheffield Hallam University, work is underway on the design of nanoclay particles, which are expected to significantly improve the barrier properties and mechanical strength of new biopolymer films and coatings. Pliant Corporation is producer of film and flexible packaging products for the food, personal care, medical, industrial and agricultural markets. Based in the US, the company also has offices in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, and has annual revenues in excess of $1bn (€0.7bn), it claims.