“We worked with CKF, one of the largest makers of paper plates in North America, because they have extensive experience working with paper products that have contact with food,” explained Harold Paivarinta of Red Sun Farms. “We asked them for a solution for our organic grape tomatoes, and the result is a full compostable, fully recyclable container.” The new packaging is mostly a paper product and only contains a thin layer of plastic on the surface. The new container will use 90 percent less plastic than previous iterations.
“It's pretty amazing because it also takes just under 16 fewer barrels of oil to make one truckload of the new containers when compared to the old containers,” said Paivarinta. “We're finishing tests on the new packaging, and it should arrive in retail stores in about 60 or 90 days.” The only drawback to the new packaging is that it doesn't offer complete visibility of the product from every angle, but Paivarinta noted that compelling graphics can make up for that.
The new packaging will first be available on the organic line, which Red Sun is paying much attention to. In addition to revamping organic containers, Red Sun is also expanding their organic acreage. With expansions planned for their growing operations in Virginia and Mexico, more of Red Sun's production will be organic in the coming year.
“We'd like to convert all of our 48 acres into organic production, but it just depends on consumer demand,” said Paivarinta. “So far, we're happy with the response, and, worst-case scenario, half of our production will be organic by next year.”
For more information:
Harold Paivarinta
Red Sun Farms
Tel: (+1) 519-733-3663