DS Smith unveils DryPack to transform sustainable seafood packaging

UK – DS Smith, a leading producer of fibre-based packaging solutions, has launched DryPack, a groundbreaking recyclable and water-resistant seafood box designed to modernize cold-chain packaging for fish processors.

DryPack is approved for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and can keep fresh fish below 40°F for more than 40 hours when packed with ice, making it a game-changer for long-haul and air-freight seafood logistics.

Notably, it is the only containerboard seafood box to receive air freight approval from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), opening up safer and more sustainable global shipping routes for seafood processors.

Manufactured at DS Smith’s specialized U.S. packaging facilities, DryPack is made using the company’s patented Greencoat technology.

This proprietary coating provides a food-safe, moisture-resistant, and fully recyclable barrier, certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and FBA.

In addition to seafood, Greencoat technology is widely used in packaging for fresh poultry and produce, replacing traditional wax-coated boxes that are harder to recycle.

DryPack boxes are shipped flat to processors, significantly cutting inbound freight costs and lowering fuel emissions.

The innovation is part of DS Smith’s broader commitment to eliminating plastics from the packaging value chain and supporting circular economy principles.

“DS Smith is changing how the seafood industry delivers seafood, salmon, and other fish from catch to customer,” said Cheryl Holliday, Marketing Director at DS Smith North America.

“DryPack is a proven, 100% recyclable, fibre-based box that meets rigorous performance and sustainability standards for processing and transportation.”

The company is also making strides in e-commerce packaging. In January, DS Smith collaborated with London-based CBD drinks start-up Goodrays to develop a sustainable fibre-based packaging solution.

Initially used for online sales, the solution now supports product distribution across major UK retailers, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose.

Featuring a custom design with DS Smith’s precision cutting tool, the packaging is easier to fold. It enables up to four times more products to be loaded per delivery, reducing transport frequency and carbon emissions.

The design aligns with DS Smith’s Circular Design Metrics, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

“This innovative packaging supports our mission to provide high-quality products sustainably while scaling our business,” said Ben Simms, Head of Operations at Goodrays.

Anne Curtis, DS Smith’s Business Lead for E-Commerce, added, “It’s rewarding to work with a brand whose values align with ours. Together, we’ve reduced Goodrays’ carbon footprint and delivery vehicle use.”

With innovations like DryPack and collaborative projects in e-commerce, DS Smith continues to lead the transition toward circular, high-performance packaging solutions for a wide range of industries.

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