The United Fresh producers association presented the latest packaging trends at FMI Connect.
Netting has been used for years for oranges, onions and other products, but plastic film is increasingly popular. It increases the lifespan of products such as peppers, melons or exotic fruit. Grouped packaging incites the buyer to purchase more than if the product was sold individually.
Products packaged as a kit allow the consumer to buy everything they need for a specific recipe. Fresh produce kits will develop, and salad kits are already a success.
Fresh produce as snacks is a response to a demand for healthy and practical food to eat on the move. Individual portion packaging will be explored.
Practical aspects such as a folding plastic spoons in a salad kit can make all of the difference regarding the consumer. The functional aspect of packaging is important in the fresh produce sector.
There is also no reason why fresh produce cannot be packaged with humorous labels like those found on pre-wrapped and boxed products.