Produce packer Oppenheimer Group, Vancouver, BC, Canada, pioneers use of compostable palm-fiber trays from another Vancouver-based company, Earthcycle Packaging Ltd. In coming months, Oppenheimer plans to offer both cluster, beefsteak tomatoes, as well as peppers, kiwi in Earthcycle packaging, may add mangoes, pears. Earthcycle derives palm fiber from husks remaining after oil is harvested from palm fruit. This biomass waste traditionally ends up in incinerators or landfills. When composted, palm fiber trays biodegrade in 90 days.

In departure from focus on polyethylene terephthalate (PET), but in line with its commitment to sustainability, Amcor PET Packaging Europe NV/SA, Zaventem, Belgium, designs, produces performs, bottles made of corn-based polylactide (PLA) resin. NatureWorks LLC, Minnetonka, MN, supplies NatureWorks PLA resin, while Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd., Bolton, ON, Canada, provides container production expertise. In initial phase of program, Husky HyPET 90 injection molds preforms. Applications for PLA bottles include edible oils, still mineral waters, fresh chilled milk.

Leak-Proof zipper profiles from Zip-Pak, Manteno, IL, prevent liquid from escaping, limit product exposure to air for optimal freshness despite multiple openings. Once sealed, pressure exerted by contents locks specially-shaped zipper profiles together to create airtight closure. Compatible with variety of laminates, polyethylene films, zipper runs on horizontal form-fill-seal, thermoform-fill-seal or pre-made pouch converting equipment.

Browse the News Archive