Fox Packaging execs share thoughts on sustainable packaging for citrus

Goals for sustainability in packaging can be viewed with more than one lens, says Victoria Lopez, marketing and brand manager for Fox Packaging.

The McAllen, Texas-based packaging supplier is continuing its work with film suppliers to create solutions that meet criteria for responsible design while supporting fresh produce, she said.

The Packer recently asked Fox Packaging executives several questions related to citrus packaging, including sustainability.

The Packer: How has packaging for citrus changed in the past 20 years?

Jacob Fox, sales executive: While the packaging arena for citrus has remained consistent, I would say that the most notable change in the fresh produce industry, especially in relation to citrus, would be how brands market and merchandise their product. Brands are colorful and inviting, using this type of color psychology, consumers are drawn to their brand by means of their packaging and ultimately, brands garner consumer loyalty. 

Our Fox Fresh Mesh Combo bag has supported citrus for the past 20 years and continues to be in demand, offering ample print space for branding to communicate the benefits of their product and the mission of their work.

What options do shippers have if they seek a more sustainable option for citrus bags?

Victoria Lopez, marketing and brand manager: We continue to work with our film suppliers to develop solutions that are reasonable for responsible bag design and for the support of fresh produce.

Sustainability can be looked at through a large lens and can then be narrowed down to what is most feasible for brands. Having a packaging application that supports extended shelf life is crucial, as food waste is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions within landfills.

What is the inventory like now for packaging? Have supply chain issues been resolved, and what is the wait time for an order?

Jacob Fox: Our lead times are as competitive as they’ve ever been, we continue to invest in our production capabilities and have the production capacity to serve new product lines and labels with impressive delivery times. 

We have seen that supply chain issues, which directly affected extended lead times, have stabilized.