Greenyard/Seald Sweet goes plastic-free with EcoBox
Greenyard USA, parent company of Vero Beach, Fla.-based Seald Sweet, has introduced a moisture-resistant, super-sturdy high-graphic grape box that’s created with clay-coated recyclable paperboard, reducing the use of plastic entirely.
The EcoBox, as it is called, is the latest manifestation of Greenyard’s commitment to sustainability, according to the company.
“Sustainability is a major focus throughout the food supply chain and in the packaging realm,” according to Greenyard. “Recent research shows that consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging and are actively looking for recyclable materials prior to purchasing products, and Greenyard wants to make lives healthier and continuously improve the products and processes in order to meet the customer needs, in an innovative and sustainable way.”
The 1-pound EcoBox ensures product breathability while allowing consumers to see the quality of the fruit inside.
“We noticed the need to develop a new eco-friendly clamshell and took action proactively. We wanted to offer retailers an innovative packaging that was aligned to their sustainable goals,” said Rob Anderholt, grape commodity manager.
Greenyard has tested the EcoBox this season on grapes and the results were very positive, and the company looks forward to using it to pack other commodities next season, added Helena Fernandez Irastorza, marketing coordinator.
Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet is also testing a more sustainable film, which reduces plastic for bagged citrus. That aligns with Greenyard’s corporate sustainability commitment to have all of its consumer packaging be recyclable by 2025.
“We are looking to creating a healthier future for all of us, not only by sourcing high-quality produce but also by creating a healthier environment,” said Mayda Sotomayor, CEO of Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet.
Gusseted, stand-up bags join Crunch Pak’s packaged lineup
Cashmere, Wash.-based sliced apple specialist Crunch Pak is adding gusseted, stand-up bags to its list of packaging options, and will launch the new SKUs with a limited item promoting “Paw Patrol the Movie” from Paramount Studios.
The bags come in 14-ounce and 24-ounce sizes and with options of sweet, tart, peeled or mixed apple slices. They’re resealable and made with materials that maintain product freshness.
“We are excited to continue the Crunch Pak legacy of innovation in products and packaging,” said Ozgur Koc, senior vice president, new business and product development. “Family-size packaging represents 35% of sliced apple business and these bags maximize shelf space with no lost space between facings, and the graphics and vertical presentation create awareness and encourage impulse purchase.”
Initial tests show the durability of the bag protects the contents’ integrity, which translates to less shrink and more satisfied shoppers, he added.
The gusseted bags will launch with Paw Patrol characters and then transition after the promotion to Crunch Pak branding.
Church Brothers rolls out convenience veg line
Salinas, Calif.-based Church Bros.’ Convenience Veg Line features a full line of convenient cut vegetable products with a bold, unique design guaranteed to stand out on the shelf, according to the company.
The microwaveable packs include Broccoli Florets, Broccoli Slaw and Vegetable Medley (all 12 oz.) and Cauliflower Florets (10 oz.), all with a 16-day shelf life. Two recipes are included on each pack.
Church Bros. is also releasing Baby Spinach, a variety of Brussels Sprout cuts, cubed Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato, and two Riced Cauliflower varieties in the coming months.
The introduction of this convenience veg line further solidifies the Church Bros. brand in the retail sector, with a full line of products to transform retail store sets, according to the company. Backed by years of experience with value-added products in the foodservice sector, Church Bros. “answers the call for high quality, convenient vegetables for today’s consumers.”
