Nearly 3 out of 4 of those voting in a recent industry poll predicted the use of reusable plastic containers will rise in the next five years.
The true-or-false prompt, posed to the LinkedIn Fresh Produce Industry Discussion Group, stated, “There will be more RPCs used in the U.S/global fresh trade in five years compared with now ...”
With nearly 70 votes cast, 73% of those responded “true,” with 27% indicating “false.”
On IFCO’s website, the company said its RPCs let fresh produce handlers avoid or reduce handling risks at every stage of the food supply chain.
Key characteristics of IFCO RPCs reduce food waste and ensure higher-quality produce, according to the company, including:
- Sturdy construction — Lower mechanical damage (crushing and bruising).
- Secure stacking — Less damage during packing, stacking and transport.
- Better ventilation — Faster cooling and more stable temperature.
- Optimal humidity — 5% higher relative humidity keeps fruit and vegetables plumper, juicier and fresher for longer.
- Independent studies have proven that IFCO RPCs lower product damage rates of produce in transit by up to 20% and packaging-related damage is reduced by up to 98%.
The company said the use of its RPCs will result in a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and cut the creation of solid waste by 86% due to their long life-span and the fact they are fully recyclable. Each is used between 30 and 120 times before it is removed from service due to wear, damage or design changes, the company said.
At the end of its life, each is granulated and used to create new RPCs, IFCO reports.
