UK – Packaging specialist Xact has launched two new state-of-the-art packaging solutions that enable retailers to reduce the amount of plastic packaging that they use for fresh produce.
The Rev Elephant is designed for carton board punnets with wings, while the Rev Condor has been developed for taping bunches of loose produce, according to the company.
The products are expected to enable grocery retailers to remove millions of pieces of single-use plastic from their supply chains every year.
Xact’s carton board punnets are currently being rolled out across UK stores and are fully recyclable with household paper waste collection.
The Rev Elephant delivers speeds of up to 250 packs per minute, compared to other carton board-based solutions typically deliver speeds of 80 packs per minute, according to Xact.
The containers are closed by applying food grade and hot melt glue. The variable information is then printed directly onto the punnet.
It is said to be suitable for a range of fresh produce and non-food packaging lines, both automated and manual loading. The compact packing “ensures no damage to delicate produce”, with the container fully optimized to avoid any empty spaces inside the package.
Rachel Bastow, marketing manager at Xact, explained: “Our Rev Elephant machine is a game-changer for the grocery industry.
“Up to approximately three times faster than other solutions on the market, the machine enables retailers to meet demand both in terms of pack quantity and quality.
“We have a proud track record in helping food producers and retailers tackle complex problems and is it hugely rewarding to have helped one of the country’s leading grocers deliver on its plastic reduction promise.”
The Rev Condor is an automatic taping machine, ideal for securing bunches of loose fresh produce and reducing the need for more unsustainable packaging. For produce such as bananas, the taping method also helps to maintain product quality, allowing them to ripen in their natural state.
The machine can automatically tape 40-45 loose products per minute and the tape itself can be manufactured from either PP, paper or compostable materials and customized according to a retailer’s specific branding.
The development comes as the packaging industry explores various alternatives for conventional fruit and vegetable packaging.
Mondi and ATS-Tanner’s recyclable paper band for individually labeled products or bundles hopes to eliminate unnecessary plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables, as well as drinks and e-commerce deliveries.
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