Cryovac aims to revolutionise whole bird packaging

The company’s new shrink overwrap product, Cryovac BDF Whole Bird, brings a multitude of benefits while maintaining the end product's traditional form, said Neil Dunn, UK sales director for Cryovac’s Food Solutions operation.

The hermetically sealed packaging, which the company claimed was puncture resistant and leak proof, allows producers to introduce modified atmosphere into the mix, allowing shelf life to be extended by around two days, the company claimed.

The lightweight film, 25 microns thin, also offers benefits, said Dunn. “When you move to BDF, you have the option of reducing the weight of the packaging by 65% because you have the option of taking out the tray.”

Further benefits include the option to do away with labels, thanks to the ability to print direct onto the packaging, creating further flexibility for processors.

“When you look at all the overall benefits the complete package offers, there’s the opportunity to make cost savings,” added Dunn. “And of course when you move to reduce the size of the packaging, you’re also able to increase case fill, with knock on benefits to distribution.”

Another added benefit of the packaging being drip proof also offers retail display options, he said. “Retailers can look at options like vertical or inclined display, which for chicken has been a problem in the past.”

For processors, the solution is also designed for a range of horizontal form fill seal systems, which can handle quick format changes and run at speeds of up to 50 packs per minute, the company added.

Overall, Dunn said the product actually offers a radical step forward for processors and retailers, while retaining a familiar, traditional form for consumers at the point of purchase.