Laser perforation's possibilities range from extending the shelf life of fresh produce, to making it possible to microwave a pre-prepared roast dinner in minutes. Steve Hughes, managing director of REO UK, takes a look at how laser microperforation is evolving food packaging.
When it comes to designing food packaging there is more to take into account than the point of sale (POS) appeal. Consumers are becoming increasingly savvy and they want more value for their money than produce that is going off before it’s even made it from car boot to refrigerator. In addition, calls to put an end to food waste are becoming a common sight in international headlines, and packaging that extends the life of produce will go a long way to answer this call.
Waste not, want not
Well designed intelligent packaging can not only help consumers in choosing the right amount of food for their needs, it will also keep it in the best possible condition for longer. This has led to a wave of research and development that has contributed to the increasing use of laser perforation technology in a variety of applications.
Breathability
In 2013, The Co-operative group of supermarkets in the United Kingdom started using computer-guided laser-cut modified moisture packaging (MMP) for its packaged tomatoes. The small hole perforation technology extended the shelf life of the fruit (yes, tomatoes are a fruit!) by two days.
This is because the precise holes in the packaging allowed the tomatoes to continue to respire, i.e. draw oxygen in and release carbon dioxide. Without the right balance of perforation, the packaged tomatoes would either become too dry or would decay and develop mould.
ASDA addressed the same problem with its Extra Special Cornish Crystal Potatoes by working with Ultimate Packaging to develop packaging that employs laser perforation patterns to optimise gas transmission through the film. As a result, ASDA reported a 92 per cent year on year reduction in customer complaints.
Accuracy
Perforation in food packaging isn’t something that’s necessarily considered new, but for a long time it has been a one size fits all solution. However, laser perforation means that now things can be optimised for individual requirements with great ease.
