StePacPPC's Innovative Packaging Revolutionizes Foodservice Waste Management

Transforming Foodservice with Innovative Packaging

StePacPPC, a leader in modified atmosphere and humidity (MA/MH) packaging solutions, is making significant strides in the US foodservice industry by addressing the pressing issue of food waste. The company, in partnership with Windham Packaging Ltd., is introducing advanced packaging technologies that extend the shelf life of fresh produce, optimizing both efficiency and sustainability in food operations.

The Food Waste Crisis

According to the European Food Information Council, global food waste amounts to an astonishing 1.05 billion tons annually. Alarmingly, nearly 290 million tons of this waste comes from the foodservice sector, which is often forced to dispose of its perishable inventory due to several factors like supply chain inconsistencies and spoilage. Even with improved inventory management, the situation has only marginally improved.

Innovative Packaging Solutions

To mitigate these challenges, StePacPPC's MA/MH packaging has been designed to prolong the freshness of produce, particularly for foodservice venues like restaurants and canteens. The effective use of this innovative packaging is already showing positive results, with a notable example involving PEA King Produce, Inc. As Miguel Ibarra, Operations Manager, shares, switching to StePacPPC's film resulted in a remarkable 5% reduction in scrap rates when packing fresh green beans and brussels sprouts.

This success story illustrates the advantages of the packaging's ability to maintain optimal moisture levels—a key contributor to extending shelf life by approximately 10% while promoting better customer satisfaction. The lean, resealable packaging design also minimizes plastic usage and aligns with current sustainability practices.

Enhanced Operational Efficiency

StePacPPC's films boast water vapor transmission rates that effectively prevent moisture build-up, thereby improving the quality of produce throughout transportation and storage. Optimized for use in both horizontal and vertical form-fill and seal operations, these films have proven to streamline processes in the foodservice sector. By utilizing high-performance sealing properties, they require shorter sealing times, which translates to increased bagger speeds and improved overall operational efficiency.

Also noteworthy is the environmentally-friendly aspect of the films, which are available with chemically recycled content certified by RedCert2, reinforcing StePacPPC's commitment to sustainability.

Positive Outcomes for Foodservice Providers

Dr. Gary Ward, CTO for StePacPPC, relayed feedback from clients who noted the superior quality of vegetables delivered using their packaging solutions. Customers have observed that products like green beans and sliced mushrooms arrive fresher and with reduced waste, presenting significant benefits for hotels, caterers, and other foodservice outlets.

Furthermore, the packaging eliminates the need for ice during transport. For instance, by adopting iceless packaging for shipping broccoli from Salinas Valley, foodservice operators could fit 66% more broccoli per container, thus reducing transport frequency and overall carbon emissions—an essential consideration in today’s eco-conscious market.

Customized Solutions for Diverse Needs

StePacPPC offers tailored packaging designed to meet the specific demands of various vegetables, factoring in respiration rates, moisture sensitivity, and atmospheric requirements. This capability ensures that every type of produce is best preserved, contributing to lower food waste and better quality products reaching the consumer.

Conclusion

StePacPPC's innovative approach to packaging not only represents a significant advancement in addressing food waste in the foodservice industry but also sets a precedent for sustainability in food production. As they showcase their solutions at the upcoming Fruit Logistica event in Berlin, the optimism surrounding these developments suggests a pivotal shift towards more efficient and responsible foodservice operations.

For more information, visit StePacPPC.