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StePacPPC and partner Windham Packaging Ltd. Inc., USA -

Advanced modified atmosphere/modified humidity packaging helps food service operations minimize waste

StePacPPC's advanced modified atmosphere/modified humidity (MA/MH) packaging solutions are transforming the US food service sector with proven success in reducing waste and improving operational efficiency. The food packaging developer together with its partner Windham Packaging Ltd. Inc., USA, is serving the demand for impactful solutions to the widespread issue of food waste in the sector.

StePacPPC Xflow flow-pack Green Beans. Photo by Miguel Ibarra WM.

The European Food Information Council estimates that some 1.05 billion tons of food waste is generated globally, out of which 60% comes from households and almost 30%—or a distressing 290 million tons—emanates from the food service industry.

To address these challenges, the two companies have developed a range of bulk modified-atmosphere packaging to extend the shelf life of fresh produce headed to food service outlets—predominantly restaurants, hotels, and canteens. These films are already gaining momentum among fresh produce packagers in the US, specifically for the delivery of ready-to-use sliced mushrooms, green beans, brussels sprouts, and broccoli, with demonstrated success in improving operational efficiency and reducing waste.

"We've been using StePacPPC's films to pack five-pound bundles of fresh green beans and brussels sprouts for food service operations," reports Miguel Ibarra, Operations Manager of PEA King Produce, Inc. "As soon as we switched to this film, we experienced a 5% reduction in scrap rate compared to the previous material. Additionally, its enhanced sealing properties require shorter sealing times, increasing bagger speeds and improving operational efficiency. The real standout benefit is the film's ability to better dissipate humidity from the bag and provide an optimal modified atmosphere, effectively increasing shelf-life by 10% and thus boosting customer satisfaction."

The lean, resealable MA/MH packaging designed by StePacPPC is built with water vapor transmission rates (WVTR) to help eliminate excess moisture buildup. This preserves the quality and appearance of the fresh produce, helping it weather long-haul shipments, extend storage time, and reduce food waste. Optimized for both horizontal and vertical form-fill and seal (HFFS and VFFS) operations, these lean films minimize plastic consumption with proven improvements in packaging process efficiency. The films are also available with chemically recycled content with accreditation from RedCert2.

StePacPPC's portfolio of films and packaging formats includes its popular branded Xtend® bags and Xflow™ films. They incorporate a patented high-performance sealing layer that seamlessly adapts to both manual and automated packing across a range of produce items.

Gary Ward, Ph.D., CTO for StePacPPC, concludes, "We have received a lot of rave reviews from our customers commending the superior quality of the fresh vegetables such as green beans and sliced mushrooms. They report their products are arriving with better quality and less waste across the US. The innovative design not only ensures peak freshness upon arrival but extends shelf life even after opening."

StePacPPC will be showcasing Fruit Logistica in Berlin, February 5-7, Booth C-30, Hall 5.2.

For more information:
Hila Nagel
StePacPPC
Tel: +972.4.612.3500
info@StePacppc.com
www.StePacppc.com

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