StePac shows off resealable lid film product

StePac and Tadbik have partnered to produce a new modified atmosphere resealable lidding film. The new technology is engineered to extend the shelf life of fresh cherries in aesthetic and functional retail packaging.

The product will be showcased at the upcoming Asia Fruit Logistica trade show in Hong Kong, September 5-7, 2018, Hall 5, booth #5038.

In this collaboration, Tadbik created a “FreshLid” laminated film structure that is sealed to trays containing fresh produce and whose upper layer can be repeatedly peeled back for reuse. The companies then worked together to develop suitable condensation control properties and control film permeability to deliver optimal modified atmosphere compositions (MAP) for high-value fresh produce items such as cherries. This innovative packaging will be marketed under the Xgo line, Stepac’s leading retail brand.

Xgo resealable lidding film technology is designed to preserve freshness and flavor during long sea shipments, prolonging the combined storage and transportation life of cherries to more than 35 days. Consumers can enjoy the full taste of the cherries across multiple servings during extended home refrigerator life since the MAP mechanism is regenerated each time the film is resealed, thus continuing quality preservation.

In a pilot study, Frutera San Fernando, a market leader in the Chilean cherry export market, shipped several refrigerated containers filled with cherries in 2.5kg trays and sealed with Xgo resealable lidding film to retailers in China, arriving in time for the Chinese New Year, according to a release from Stepac. Cherries are considered the perfect red-colored gift in Chinese tradition.

The success of this pilot project propelled increased interest in the use of the film by FRUSAN for the upcoming Chilean cherry season. It also created a ripple effect, expanding the use of this high-value solution among cherry packers and shippers. This, in turn, garnered interest from the blueberry industry.

StePac has expressed aspirations to expand its activity in the Asian market. “Chinese importers are willing to pay premium prices for high-quality cherries and blueberries,” said Gary Ward, Ph.D., Technical Development Manager for StePac. “This drives the growing export of these fruits from Peru and Chile to China, and with it the need for attractive, functional packaging to preserve quality during the lengthy sea freight.”