Fruit and vegetables are fragile products. It is, therefore, essential to store and transport them in packaging that will sufficiently protect them during transportation. Sturdy, protective, food-safe packaging prevents loss in the chain.
“That is why the fruit and vegetable sector is increasingly choosing solid cardboard packaging. This is a sturdy, moisture-proof, food-safe material. It has proven itself a sustainable alternative to plastic," says Johan de Neef, Business Unit Manager at Smart Packaging Solutions.
Solid cardboard as a substitute for plastic
Solid cardboard packages have advantages. Thanks to these, it is an excellent alternative to multi-use plastic crates. These are commonly used for fruit and vegetables. These crates take up a lot of room and must be returned after use.
This takes time and is unnecessarily harmful to the environment. "A solid cardboard box saves space. After use, it can immediately be broken down and recycled into a completely new kind of packaging," explains Johan.
This kind of packaging is not only environmentally friendly; it is also food-safe. The once-off use of packaging prevents harmful bacteria from being spread to other foodstuffs by the re-use of the packaging.
Johan says, “Solid cardboard is also produced in accordance with all the relevant regulations regarding food-safety. This makes it reliable to bring the material into contact with food."
Protective solid cardboard packaging
Solid cardboard is made up of fibers that are pressed together very tightly. This product is, therefore, extremely dense, which gives the material its strength.
“This packaging can be stacked in higher, more stable stacks for transport. Meanwhile, the sturdy material ensures sufficient protection for the fruit and vegetables during the many kilometers they travel," Johan continues.
Thanks to the solid cardboard's high density, the material is not only robust, but it is also moisture-proof. Especially if both sides are coated with a moisture-resistant polyethylene layer.
“This moisture resistance guarantees that the solid cardboard packaging remains sturdy in cool, moist conditions. These are the conditions under which fruit and vegetables are transported," concludes Johan.
For more information:
Johan De Neef
Smart Packaging Solutions
120 Oude Baan
9200 Oudegem-Dendermonde, BE
Tel: +32 (0) 522 61 925
johan.de.neef@smartpaso.com
www.smart-packaging-solutions.com