Preferred Packaging launches recyclable GreenStrea pulp trays

USA – Niche packaging solutions provider Preferred Packaging has added new molded pulp trays, made from natural plant fibers to its GreenStream sustainable packaging portfolio.

Preferred Packaging, a division of C-P Flexible Packaging is a trusted manufacturer of integrated takeaway packaging systems, including multi-layer flexible films, thermoformed containers and dish sealing equipment

Designed for packaged meals, GreenStream plant fiber trays are freezer-safe, microwave-safe, and oven-safe. These plastic-free trays are also compostable and recyclable in municipalities with collection systems.

According to the company, the new trays are being introduced at the School Nutrition Association Annual National Conference in Orlando, Florida July 10-12, 2022.

Designed for packaged meals, the pulp tray is composed of plant fibers such as sugar cane husks and bamboo fibers and is manufactured without producing wastewater.

The tray’s surface is sealable with the company’s Affirm lidding films and is claimed to have improved oil and water resistance.

In addition, the tray offers fiber formulations that do not contain perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

C-P Flexible Packaging CEO Mike Hoffman said: “The addition of GreenStream plant fiber trays to our sustainable packaging portfolio strengthens our capabilities to provide innovative, environmentally responsible solutions to the prepared meals market.

“At the School Nutrition Association Annual Conference, we’re excited to display several new innovations that allow schools to do more with less impact on the environment, delivering high-quality meals, snacks and desserts in safe and efficient formats to the students who rely on them.”

The addition of pulp trays comes at a time when consumers prefer sustainable packaging and hygiene, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to a survey by McKinsey Packaging, consumer attitudes about sustainable packaging have changed significantly after the pandemic.

Before the pandemic, public awareness that packaging can leak into the environment had increased a good deal.

Fast-moving-consumer-goods (FMCG) companies and retailers were making big commitments to sustainable packaging, and regulatory bodies were moving decisively on the issue.

The survey found that more than half of US consumers are nonetheless highly concerned about the environmental impact of packaging in general.

In addition, they are willing to pay more for green, but they would also buy additional sustainably packaged products if more of them were available and were better labeled.

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