TekniPlex launches shatter-resistant food trays with 50% post-industrial recycled content
30 May 2022 --- TekniPlex Consumer Products is launching a line of 100% PET Processor Trays made from 50% post-industrial recycled content. The trays offer “premium product display” while addressing common packaging challenges prevalent in the poultry industry.
Such challenges include higher-end products such as those labeled organic, non-GMO or environmentally sustainably sourced.
TekniPlex’s new trays are made of 100% PET, contain up to 50% post-industrial recycled content and are 100% recyclable.
“We are continuing to expand our overall material and product offerings to include more eco-minded solutions as our customers and their commitment to [environmental] sustainability continue to drive industry-wide change,” says Jay Arnold, vice president and general manager.
“PET is the most widely recycled and favorably viewed plastic in the eyes of the public, making it a great option to help our customers meet their goals.”
Shatter resistance
The company explains the trays’ heightened environmental sustainability and “attractive” shelf appeal are complemented by premium performance, as they are designed to survive the rigors of the case-ready environment. TekniPlex’s PET trays are shatter-resistant even in harsh, cold environments – reducing breakage, product loss, leaks, and the risk of safety recalls.
TekniPlex’s new trays are made of 100% PET, contain up to 50% post-industrial recycled content and are 100% recyclable.During a year-long production campaign with a poultry processor, the trays showed no signs of cracking or breakage throughout the supply chain, providing “outstanding” protection, says TekniPlex.
“Our customers are looking for certain characteristics in next-generation solutions for the fresh foods industry,” says Arnold. “As their needs evolve and consumer preferences shift, we’re excited to offer more solutions that align with our customers' business goals for quality, efficiency, and more.”
Hidden Rim Tech
TekniPlex’s PET Processor Trays utilize an proprietary innovative technique called Hidden Rim Technology, which prevents the overwrap film from tearing and creates freight and shipping efficiencies.
Because the trays pack denser, customers can increase shipping volume per truck, reducing the number of truck trips needed. In the poultry test customer example mentioned above, the rim technology also yielded a 30% reduction in worker hours needed to unload trucks.
“The cube advantage can provide fuel, cost, and time savings to customers while reducing the number of trucks on the road and freeing up valuable warehouse square footage at a time when real estate space is at a premium,” explains Arnold.
TekniPlex’s PET Processor Trays are hassle-free to adopt, as they are a drop-in replacement for foam polystyrene trays. This means there is no need to update existing equipment or alter production processes.
The new PET Processor Trays are available in clear (natural), translucent colors, and opaque colors. Clear and translucent trays are accepted into the recycling stream at many material recovery facilities across the country. Additional tray sizes and hues are continuously in development to meet customer needs.
Last week, PackagingInsights spoke with meat packaging industry experts from Sealpac, GEA and Flexopack about how machinery and packaging design can achieve enhanced hygiene and eco-credentials while facing down the current boom in-market challenges.
At Anuga FoodTec 2022 today in Cologne, Germany, Mondi unveiled two recyclable trays for fresh food. The paper-based tray and semi-rigid plastic trays are designed to reduce food waste.
Edited
By Natalie Schwertheim
