CKF creates recyclable, compostable paper sleeve

Hantsport, Nova Scotia-based CKF Inc.’s Earthcycle brand of compostable and recyclable packaging has expanded its range of sustainable options.

The company designed, tested and trialed paper sleeves for a variety of fresh produce, including apples, kiwis, avocados and berries, according to a news release. 

Positive feedback has instigated new programs, and the sleeves will be on retail shelves by late July in many cases.

Earthcycle’s trays or punnets — small, light baskets for produce — with paper sleeves are a response to consumer demand for reduced single-use plastic packaging. Using a paper sleeve offers consumers a 100% plastic-free package that is still certified home-compostable and recyclable. 

The sleeve solution also creates more real estate for branding and product messaging, and it works well for home delivery and e-commerce.

“It really is as simple as listening to our customer base,” Brad Dennis, vice president of sales and marketing for global, said in the release. 

CKF sought input from JASA Packaging Solutions, firm offering automated sleeving solutions. 

“We are intimately aware of the need for highly automated packaging systems in the fresh produce industry …” Sandra Somford, JASA president, said in the release.

The packaging is particularly good for protecting and displaying soft fruit, PackCo S.L. art director Michael Stephen said in the release. PackCo S.L. is a Valencia, Spain-based packaging and design firm.