Innovation from StePac: shelf life of cherries extended up to 35 days!

           The innovative packaging solution from StePac, packaging specialist, was successfully presented these days on Asia Fruit Logistica trade show in Hong Kong.

            StePac L.A. Ltd. succeeds to implement a comprehensive supply chain solution for the delivery of fresh cherries, working closely with its partners. The company has joined forces with Tadbik Ltd., a world leader of advanced packaging solutions including Flexible Packaging, Labels, RFID, packaging machinery and in-pack promotion, to produce the next generation of modified atmosphere resealable lidding film.

           The new technology is engineered to extend the shelf life of fresh cherries in aesthetic and functional retail packaging as well as reduce waste.

            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.

               “Successful implementation of MAP requires a holistic approach that includes an understanding of post-harvest pathology, produce physiology, cold-chain logistics, and the interaction of each of these factors with packaging design,” explains Gary Ward, Ph.D., Technical Development Manager for StePac.

              This packaging design incorporates multiple capabilities to effectively slow respiration and High demand for cherries in China revs up need for functional packaging to extend shelf life and reduce waste

ageing processes, and to control humidity inside the packaging and extend fresh produce shelf life. Following research and trials at StePac's post-harvest

Xgo resealable lidding film technology provides multiple benefits:

1. It preserves freshness and flavor during long sea shipments, prolonging the combined storage and transportation life of cherries to more than 35 days.
2. 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.
3. It maintains its attractive packaging design throughout multiple uses.

             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,” explains Ward. “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.”