Israel-based compostable packaging producer Tipa and shelf-life extension specialist from the Netherlands, PerfoTec, have partnered to offer fully compostable packaging that extends the shelf-life of fresh produce.
The partnership comes as consumer demand for low-waste packaging continues to grow, and suppliers seek sustainable packaging solutions that don’t compromise produce quality.
The laser microperforated compostable film provides retailers and suppliers with packaging qualities that Tipa said will help reduce food waste, combat plastic pollution and cut carbon emissions.
Tipa and PerfoTec’s combined technologies have been found to double the expected shelf-life of fruit, vegetables and flowers.
Tipa’s compostable packaging performs like a conventional plastic but decomposes in compost back into the soil with no toxic residue, microplastics or other pollutants. Its packaging solutions can also fit with industry machinery and manufacturing practices.
PerfoTec’s said its patented high precision laser technology facilitates longer shelf-life by adapting the permeability of food packaging.
These technologies provide an innovative end-of-life solution for produce packaging while supplying retailers and end-consumers with extended produce shelf-life.
Eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastic, like compostable films, are projected to be a key contributor to the growth of the global flexible packaging market in coming years, according to Tipa.
The company said the market is expected to increase from US$160.8bn to US$200.5bn by 2025.
PerfoTec’s chief executive, Bas Groeneweg, said the two companies had trialled the film for “many months” and that PerfoTec’s patented laser perforation provided the best shelf-life for fruits, vegetables and flowers by far.
“It provides longer shelf-life and freshness which means fewer quality losses, less food waste and cost savings for producers and retailers,” explained Groeneweg.
“Partnering with Tipa to create compostable packaging that can outperform conventional plastic is a hugely exciting step forward for sustainable packaging. We’re delighted to be playing our part in the stride against quality losses, food waste and plastic pollution.”
Ayellet Zinger, vice president of aales for Tipa added: “In combining our technologies, Tipa and PerfoTec form a synergistic partnership that optimises flexible packaging for produce.
“We have created an exceptional product that extends the shelf-life of fruit, vegetables and flowers with a protective and fully compostable film that decomposes just like the product its packaging.
“Tipa and PerfoTec bring huge added value for flexible produce packaging, reducing food and packaging waste, and providing solutions for the future of sustainable packaging.”