Fresh salad, ‘nature’ packaging

First tested last summer, Il Melograno srl, a produce company in Santarcangelo di Romagna, Italy, is now packaging its fresh, ready-to-eat salads using films made of corn-based NatureWorks PLA, from Cargill Dow BV in the Netherlands.

First tested last summer, Il Melograno srl, a produce company in Santarcangelo di Romagna, Italy, is now packaging its fresh, ready-to-eat salads using films made of corn-based NatureWorks PLA, from Cargill Dow BV in the Netherlands. Arnie Orloski, Jr., VP/Executive Editor “We are promoting our use of a nature-based packaging to help increase interest in the Il Melograno brand,” says Claudio Coli, general manager of Il Melograno.

“NatureWorks PLA packaging also fits with our strategic commitment to the environment and a positive consumer experience.” In Italy, demand is growing for ready-to-use fresh foods.

According to data, sales of the foods last year increased by 39%, reaching a level of €349 million ($420 million). Some 59% of Italian shoppers reported buying a ready-to-use fresh food at least once each week. Packaging made of NatureWorks PLA will degrade in industrial compost facilities. But the nonpetroleum-based film also offers the level of breathability and aroma barrier required for fresh produce packaging, says Stephano Cavallo, business development manager for Cargill Dow BV. “The salad bags are very transparent and glossy, and have a crisp sound. That attracts a favorable response from consumers,” he says. —AO