New films let produce ‘breathe’, extend shelf life, says Innovia
The biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film works by allowing prepared produce to continue ‘breathing’ after it is packed, said the firm.
PropaFresh P2G and PropaFresh P2GAF are permeable, no-perforated films, which work by controlling the rate at which gases – specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide – migrate in and out of a pack through the film.
Shelf life extension
According to Innovia, PropaFresh P2G, which has a polymer formulation, can extend the shelf-life of a range of prepared fresh foods by several days. PropaFresh P2GAF, provides anti-mist properties.
“Being able to extend the shelf-life of fresh produce, even for just two or three days, is extremely valuable not only for producers, retailers and consumers, but also for the environment,” said Clare McKeown, market manager, Innovia Films - Europe, Fresh & Chilled Foods.
“The advances we have achieved in polymer technology by developing PropaFresh P2G & P2GAF mean we are able to work with the majority of players in the fruit and vegetable arena to ensure the absolute optimum in-pack conditions for their products.”
Permeability
Innovia said its PropaFresh P2G has an oxygen permeability of 3000 (cm³/m² 24hrs) and carbon dioxide permeability of 12000(cm³/m² 24hrs). This ratio is maintained, said the company, whilst still increasing the volume gas exchange.
This is said to keep the packaged products fresh while also maintaining their organoleptic properties.
Other benefits include heat sealability and printability, said Innovia. The films are also food contact approved and have peelable seals, which makes the packs easy to open.
Waste reduction
The firm also said the new films do their part in contributing to reduced food waste by allowing for the extension in shelf-life.
“Delivering improved shelf life is also key to reducing food waste and fits in with the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP)’s ‘Love Food, Hate Waste’ campaign, which recommends consumers keep prepared fresh produce in the original packaging and refrigerate,” said McKeown.
WRAP is a government-backed programme charged with ensuring that the UK meets EU requirements on reducing waste throughout the bloc.
The agency estimates that 5.2 million tonnes of food related packaging waste and 6.7 million tonnes of food waste are disposed of within UK homes each year.
