Sep 20, 2021
Graphic Packaging’s ProducePack reduces apple defects for BelleHarvest

Graphic Packaging International’s ProducePack, a sustainable paperboard range of packaging designed for fresh produce applications, is proving to be an effective and user-friendly solution to preserving fruit for Michigan apple distributor BelleHarvest.

Following its successful launch earlier this year, the innovative ProducePack was introduced for BelleHarvest’s three most popular apple varieties, Fuji, Honeycrisp and Gala. Featuring an upright structure to protect the delicate apples while enhancing branding opportunities by increasing billboarding space, ProducePack is a 100% recyclable packaging solution. In addition, the carton’s striking design, with its convenient quick ‘grab & go’ carry handle, has been attracting attention in the produce aisle.

“We care greatly about our effect on the environment, so we are excited to lead the way in evolving our packaging in the apple category and respond to consumer demands for a paper-based alternative to plastic,” Angela Sommers, marketing director at BelleHarvest, said in a news release.

“We are therefore delighted to report that ProducePack has led to a greater than 15 percent reduction in apple defects while stored in refrigeration, keeping our fruit in the best condition for longer,” Sommers. said  “The packaging material and fruit held up exceptionally well in transit and refrigeration, reducing the possibility of shrinkage and packaging waste. This is an excellent achievement in such a short space of time! Our partnership with Graphic Packaging is proving to be a great success in our ongoing mission to protect both the environment and our nutritious, flavorful apples.”

BelleHarvest’s sustainable apple packaging recently scooped one of four wins for Graphic Packaging in the Institute of Packaging Professionals’ AmeriStar Awards 2021. Awarded under Saves Food–Agriculture, the winning BelleHarvest pack was a first for the fresh produce category.

Jackie D’Ambrosio, senior manager, new product development – omni-channel at Graphic Packaging, said: “We are extremely pleased that our innovative range is producing such impressive results for BelleHarvest. This underscores ProducePack’s viability as a commercial solution for customers who want to make a positive contribution to the environment while meeting growing demand from consumers for a sustainable, fiber-based alternative to plastic.”

ProducePack’s ability to protect, preserve and present fresh produce, from field to store, is aligned with Graphic Packaging’s Vision 2025 to be better stewards for the environment. Available to the US and European markets in multiple different configurations and structures, the carton can offer comfortable carrying handles and beautiful branding and is suitable for both hand- and machine-packing for short run or mass production. ProducePack also offers another level of hygiene protection as the produce is pre-packed and can reduce excessive handling in store.

Graphic Packaging International, LLC, the primary operating subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Co. (NYSE: GPK), headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is committed to providing consumer packaging that makes a world of difference.

The company is a leading provider of sustainable paper-based packaging solutions for a wide variety of products to food, beverage, foodservice, and other consumer products companies. The company operates on a global basis, is one of the largest producers of folding cartons and paper-based foodservice products in the United States, and holds leading market positions in coated recycled paperboard, coated unbleached kraft paperboard and solid bleached sulfate paperboard.

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