Earthcycle presents new home compostable and recyclable packaging solutions 

Nova Scotia-based CKF Inc. will be presenting just released printed packaging designs for its Earthcycle range of home compostable, recyclable, and renewable punnets at Fruit Logistica in Berlin and at the CPMA Convention in Montreal, according to a news release.

In addition, the company will display carton sleeves designed for Earthcycle trays along with punnets fitted with certified home compostable top seal film.

CKF partnered with Parkside Films to commercialize home-compostable top seal packaging for Riverford Organic Farmers, a UK-based produce delivery service, according to the release. 
“A majority of our members home compost and prefer non-plastic packaging, so the Earthcycle home compostable, FSC certified punnet with Parkside film perfectly supports our sustainable packaging objectives,” Dale Robinson, head of procurement at Riverford, said in the release.

Earthcycle packages offers high through-put in their automated packing lines, an important feature as demand for their veg-box service steadily increases, Robinson said in the release.

Carton sleeves are a viable, plastic free, packaging solution now that there is a way to automate the packing, according to the release. CKF will be displaying carton sleeves that are commercially available for such segments as berries, kiwis, and avocados, the company reported.

With the installation of digital print technology in the second quarter this year, Earthcycle punnets can be produced with full color high impact graphics, messaging, and logos, according to the release. Phase 2 of development will allow for the printing of QR and UPC codes.

“From focus groups and client feedback, we have learned that the natural Earthcycle texture and color quickly conveys to the consumer an environmentally responsible package,” Shannon Boase, senior director of new market development, said in the release. “There is a unique opportunity to use the Earthcycle material as a canvas to convey sustainability and communicate the brand message in a consistent fashion.”

With digital printing, associated costs of inventory, obsolete stock and labor can now be reduced, she said in the release. “With digital print technology it also means we can offer lower minimums on print runs so we can support client requests for smaller specialty, seasonal or limited trial programs.”

CKF will be displaying its entire line up of Earthcycle packaging for produce at its booth at the upcoming Fruit Logistica show (Hall 23 Stand A-14) in Berlin. Earthcycle printed punnet samples will also be on display at the Crawford Packaging booth (#2205) at the CPMA Convention and Trade Show in Montreal.