Packaging

Popularity of Consumer Packs Continues to Grow for Lemons and Limes

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:31:40 GMT

Suppliers of lemons and limes are going all out to come up with packaging that offers consumers both convenience
and value.

Medrano Produce

As Medrano Produce LLC, begins its 10th year in April, the Pharr, Texas-based company will introduce new packaging for its organic and conventional limes, says Franco Medrano, vice president of marketing and sales.

The new artwork will more fittingly display the cultural heritage of the company, according to Medrano, and will include one of the firm’s mottos: “Quality that honors family.”

New artwork for the company’s conventional lemons should be on store shelves by May.

The company offers 1- and 2-pound bags of conventional and organic limes and conventional lemons.

Medrano estimates that 20% of the company’s lemons and limes are sold in consumer packs.

Wonderful Citrus

The breakdown of retail bagged versus bulk sales for lemons at Los Angeles-based Wonderful Citrus LLC is approximately 60% bagged versus 40% bulk, says Zak Laffite, president.

The breakdown for limes is slightly more balanced.

“By offering 1-, 2-, 3- and 5-pound bags, Wonderful Seedless Lemons offer a great solution for heavy lemon users and consumers seeking convenience,” he says.

Wonderful Citrus also provides 1- and 2-pound bags of limes, with 5-pound bags to larger store formats and club stores.

Sunkist Growers

Valencia, Calif.-based Sunkist Growers Inc. offers a range of packaging options to meet varying retailer and consumer needs, says Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing.

Those options include bulk cartons and consumer-ready packs.

“While bulk fruit continues to play an important role, there is strong demand for consumer packaging that delivers convenience and value,” Howard says.

For lemons and limes, Sunkist provides a variety of consumer pack formats, including pouch bags, netted “giro” bags and combination packs in multiple sizes, as well as bulk offerings, she says.

Major Tomato Packing Facility Equipment Available in Timed Online Auction

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:26:31 GMT

Tauber-Arons Inc., in partnership with CFM Worldwide Pre-Owned Food Equipment, is providing a timed online-only auction featuring a complete tomato packing facility in Indio, Calif. Bidding opens Thursday, April 30, and closes Thursday, May 7, at 10:30 a.m. Pacific time, with inspection scheduled for May 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This comprehensive sale includes 18 TriPak fillers and two Curry palletizers, along with a wide range of supporting equipment such as stainless steel water tanks, water heaters, elevators, chlorine dispensing systems, grading and sizing lines, conveyors, pumps, motors, air compressors and more. The facility can handle approximately 25,000 boxes per day, with racking capacity for over 25 loads, according to the company.

“This is an exceptional opportunity for buyers in the produce and food processing industries to acquire a complete, high-capacity packing operation,” says Tony Arons, president of Tauber-Arons. “The breadth and quality of equipment make this a rare offering in today’s market.”

Interested bidders can view full details and register online. For additional information, contact Tauber-Arons at 323-851-2008 or visit tauberaronsinc.com/events/major-tomato-packing-facility .

Gallant Engineering Brings End-to-End Automation to Fresh Produce Sector

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:16:36 GMT

Gallant Engineering USA’s Li-Pack 360D is now available. The automation firm provides integrated packaging and palletizing machinery for the food and consumer goods sectors.

The company says its Li-Pack 360D is a patented linear dual-lane packaging machine that doubles throughput while maintaining competitive pricing. First debuted in 2023 with successful pilot implementations, the system achieves 90 pouches per minute, according to the company.

The patented mirror-image dual-lane design runs two synchronized packaging lines in parallel. Gallant Engineering says its linear architecture delivers a minimal footprint. Other features include single weigher operation; modular station configuration for cold seal, vacuum, and nitrogen flushing; automated HMI changeover; and more.

“The Li-Pack 360D emerged from a simple question: Why should manufacturers pay double for doubled capacity?” says Abhijit Salpe, CEO and founder of Gallant Engineering. “By rethinking the fundamental architecture of pouch packaging lines, we’ve engineered a solution that delivers enterprise-level throughput at an accessible price point for mid-market manufacturers.”

The Li-Pack 360D serves manufacturers across snacks, dried fruits, nuts and more. Gallant Engineering says the system has proven effective in fresh produce packaging, filling pouches for fresh dates faster than competing equipment, with customized solutions under development for grapes and tomatoes.

The company says the system is in full production with delivery and installation within 15 weeks.

Why the Produce Aisle is Finally Embracing Sensory-Inclusive Packaging Designs

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:02:09 GMT

For many consumers, packaging is a persistent, if minor, adversary. Research shows the average person will spend roughly 43 days of their life struggling to open products, with 84% of shoppers reporting regular frustration. But for neurodivergent individuals and those with sensory sensitivities, these aren’t just “wrap rage” moments. They are significant barriers to independence.

As we mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week this March, the retail industry is shifting its perspective, moving from seeing packaging as a purely functional or aesthetic challenge to a vital sensory and accessibility issue. Leading this charge is retail insights agency PRS In Vivo . In April 2025, the agency unveiled its sensory room as part of its global retail labs — state-of-the-art simulated supermarket environments. By observing real-world interactions, their researchers have pinpointed how visual clutter and tactile friction specifically exclude the 15% of the global population living with disabilities.

Nowhere is this evolution more critical than in the fresh produce aisle. Patrick Young, managing director of PRS In Vivo, suggests the industry is finally moving toward a design philosophy where accessibility and aesthetic appeal coexist.

Patrick Young, managing director of PRS In Vivo, suggests that the industry is finally moving toward a design philosophy where accessibility and aesthetic appeal coexist.

(Photo courtesy of PRS In Vivo)

The Balance of Visibility and Accessibility

Young believes the first step is managing the tension between the shopper’s need to inspect fresh goods and the requirement for clear, accessible information.

“Fresh produce is one of the few remaining categories where shoppers still want visual reassurance,” Young says. “Our retail lab research consistently shows that being able to see color, texture and freshness is central to quality perception and trust. That creates an interesting tension when designing for accessibility. The balance lies in hierarchy and restraint. Inclusive design does not have to mean visually intrusive design. High-contrast typography can be placed in structured bands that frame, rather than obscure, the product window. Tactile elements such as embossed icons or corner markers can be positioned on structural areas of the pack rather than over the viewing panel.

“The key is to treat accessibility as an integrated design principle from the outset, not something layered on top at the end. When hierarchy is clear and messaging is simplified, both sighted and visually impaired shoppers benefit,” he says.

As the industry pivots toward eco-friendly materials, Young sees a golden opportunity to simultaneously solve long-standing issues with physical dexterity.

“On the question of sustainability and dexterity, there is a real opportunity for what I would call a ‘dexterity dividend.’ Many traditional plastic packs were optimized for cost and shelf life rather than ease of use. As retailers transition to pulp, paper-based hybrids and more flexible mono-material solutions, there is a chance to rethink opening mechanisms entirely,” Young says.

Wider grip tabs, perforations that require less force, resealable paper strips and softer structural forms can all improve usability for seniors or shoppers with arthritis, he says.

“Sustainable design should not only reduce environmental impact but also reduce friction at home. If a pack is easier to open, easier to reseal and easier to recycle, it increases satisfaction across demographics,” Young says.

The Digital Layer

While technology offers new ways to provide information, Young warns smart packaging can inadvertently create cognitive barriers for neurodivergent consumers if not implemented with restraint.

“The digital layer adds further complexity. QR codes and smart packaging offer meaningful inclusion benefits, particularly through audio descriptions or expanded sourcing information. However, our sensory room research suggests there is absolutely a tipping point. When packaging becomes crowded with claims, icons and tech prompts, cognitive load increases, especially for neurodivergent shoppers,” Young says.

The solution, he says, is progressive disclosure.

“Keep the physical pack calm and legible, then allow deeper information to live behind a single, clearly signposted access point. One code, one message, one call to action. Digital should feel like an optional layer, not an obligation,” Young says.

A Long-Overdue Rethink

Ultimately, Young argues tthe produce aisle should lead the way in creating a more intuitive, less stressful shopping environment.

“More broadly, the produce aisle is overdue a rethink,” Young says. “It is often the most natural category in the store, yet its packaging can feel the least considered. If brands and retailers treat transparency, accessibility and sustainability as complementary rather than competing goals, they can create packaging that builds trust, reduces frustration and enhances the overall sensory experience. In fresh produce, simplicity is not a compromise. It is a competitive advantage.”

The findings from the PRS In Vivo sensory room suggest inclusive design is no longer a niche CSR initiative; it is a fundamental driver of shopper confidence. When brands reduce cognitive load and physical friction, they don’t just help the one-in-seven people with disabilities, they create a “curb-cut effect” where the shopping experience becomes more seamless for everyone. In a crowded marketplace, the brands that win will be those that realize the best packaging doesn’t just protect the product, it respects the consumer’s time, senses and abilities.

Your Next Read: Retail Research: Inside the Mind of the Produce Shopper

Del Fresco Pure Debuts New Top-Seal Packaging

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:22:30 GMT

Del Fresco Pure, a family-owned and -operated company that has been in business for 70 years, says it has added a new sustainable top seal for its Original Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine.

The Kingsville, Ontario, company says this packaging is designed to reduce plastic usage while maintaining freshness, quality and shelf appeal.

The packaging will be 100% recyclable, with a 26-micron laminated top seal, featuring a PET-to-PET structure with a high-transparency film barrier with anti-fog. Del Fresco Pure says this new packaging supports its broader sustainability goals and responds to growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible produce solutions.

“Celebrating 70 years of greenhouse growing is an incredible milestone for our family and our team,” says Ray Mastronardi, vice president of sales for Del Fresco Pure. “As we look to the future, innovations like our sustainable top seal packaging demonstrate our ongoing commitment to responsible agriculture, exceptional flavor, and continuous improvement for our customers and retail partners.”

Mission Produce Adds Lidded Mango Carton

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:20:16 GMT

Mission Produce, a producer and distributor of fresh hass avocados, has launched a new 4-kilogram lidded mango carton. The company says this consumer-ready packaging solution is designed to help retailers streamline merchandising and drive incremental mango sales.

Mission says this packaging is designed as a single-sell unit, which features a bold, orange design and a distinctive lid that showcases the fruit while protecting quality. The stackable format allows for flexible placement on-shelf or in secondary displays, enabling retailers to quickly build high-impact merchandising destinations. Mission says this packaging can help retailers showcase mangoes during holidays, promotional events and other high-traffic selling periods.

The company says it is packing Peruvian kents in the cartons and will transition to a Mexican supply in March. The carton accommodates round mango varieties, including kent, keitt, tommy atkins and haden, across multiple sizes, offering customers consistent supply options throughout the season.

“With demand for mangoes continuing to build, retailers are looking for solutions that are both operationally efficient and visually compelling,” says Brooke Becker, senior vice president of sales at Mission Produce. “Our new lidded mango carton was developed with the retailer in mind; it arrives display-ready, creates a strong in-store presence and supports impulse purchases during key promotional windows. We anticipate this format will help our partners elevate the mango category while simplifying execution at store level.”

Consumers and Retailers Want Sustainable Produce Packaging

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:52:58 GMT

Sustainable packaging for fresh produce is intensely important for both consumers and retailers, according to data gathered by The Packer.

In The Packer’s Sustainability Insights 2025 survey , nearly 4 out of 5 consumer respondents (79%) reported that sustainable packaging in fresh produce was important, very important or extremely important to them. Similarly, in The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2026 survey , over half of respondents said the sustainability of fresh produce packaging impacts their purchasing decision in some way: sometimes (30%), usually (16%) or always (8%).

Consumers also claim they are willing to pay for produce in sustainable packaging. Depending on specific packaging traits, 68% to 72% of Sustainability Insights’ consumer respondents said they were willing to pay more for produce in sustainable packaging. In general, more consumer respondents reported a willingness to pay more for produce in bio-based packaging (72%) than for produce in recycled or recyclable packaging (both at 68%).

Willingness to pay more for sustainable packaging differed greatly by age, however, with younger respondents more frequently indicating they would than did older respondents. For example, only 10% of respondents in the youngest age group of 18-24 said they would not pay more for produce packaged in compostable materials. This compares to 47% of respondents aged 65 or older.

Similarly, a higher rate of younger respondents reported they were willing to spend more for fresh produce packaged in sustainable materials. To use the same example, 40% of respondents aged 18-24 indicated they would be willing to spend up to 10% more for produce packaged in compostable materials. Another 40% said they would be willing to spend up to 15% more. This compares to 44% and 5%, respectively, for respondents aged 65 or older.

Retailers on Sustainable Produce Packaging

It’s not just consumers who see big value in sustainable produce packaging. Retailers who participated in the Sustainability Insights survey also ranked sustainable packaging as important to the overall sustainability of the fresh produce supply chain and their business.

Of retail respondents, 93% ranked recyclable packaging as important (24%), very important (33%) or extremely important (36%) to their overall sustainability, making it the top-ranked item. Other forms of sustainable packaging also ranked high for retailers. Biodegradable packaging came in at No. 2 with 92% of respondents ranking it at some level of importance. Compostable packaging came in at No. 4, with 86% of respondents indicating importance.

When asked what they mean by “sustainable packaging,” two-thirds of retailers said both “biodegradable” and “recyclable.” Slightly over half (54%) of retail respondents defined sustainable as “made from post-recycled materials,” and 52% defined it as “compostable.”

Retailer respondents appear to be increasingly convinced of consumers’ willingness to spend more for produce in sustainable packaging. In the 2025 survey, only 18% of retail respondents reported they thought consumers would not pay more for sustainable packaging. This is down from 28% in 2024 and 41% in 2023.

Retailer respondents also overwhelmingly said the cost of sustainable produce packaging should be borne by supply chain members other than the consumer.

In 2025, 77% of retailer respondents answered the question “How should the cost of sustainable packaging be shared across the supply chain?” with “A combination of growers, retailers, wholesalers, distributors and processors.” Only 5% of respondents said that cost should rest solely on the consumer.

Consumer Perceptions on Packaging Sustainability

Consumers agree that they are not the primary party responsible for the overall sustainability of their produce, with only 10% of respondents saying consumers are the most responsible. However, one reason why sustainable packaging might be so important to them is that it is an area where they feel they have some control over the produce sustainability question.

While respondents overwhelmingly reported seeing food companies, governments and growers as primarily responsible for the sustainability of fresh produce, 44% of respondents said they choose produce in eco-friendly packaging when possible. This was the highest response rate for any option to the question, “What are you personally doing, or would you like to do, to pursue a sustainable lifestyle?”

Interestingly, sustainable packaging also impacted how consumers viewed the produce in the package. Almost two-thirds (60%) of consumer respondents to Sustainability Insights said eco-friendly packaging is the No. 1 identifier of sustainable produce. In the 2025 report, sustainable packaging beat out even organic certification (59%), regenerative growing practices (46%) and local (45%) as an indication of sustainable produce.

Produce Leaders Sound the Alarm as California Closes the Window on Packaging Rules

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:55:49 GMT

The story of the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act is not a new one in the state of California. However, those in the produce industry say the regulations called for in this act have taken a sharp and alarming turn, one that would have severe consequences in the fresh produce industry.

This act calls for all packaging to be recyclable or compostable, and plastic packaging to exceed a 50% recycling rate by 2032. CalRecycle released a permanent draft of the regulations for the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, which is significantly different than its December 2025 draft, which it withdrew and replaced with a new version on Jan. 29.

Gail Delihant, senior director of governmental affairs at Western Growers, says this new draft eliminates previous categorical exclusions for fresh produce packaging, which would have allowed for compliance while also meeting food safety requirements.

Kevin Kelly, CEO of Emerald Packaging, says he has been advocating for achievable goals within produce packaging since SB 54’s inception. But he says this latest change in the regulations has definitely caught the fresh produce industry a little off guard.

“I think what surprised people is everybody thought that the language would eventually make for a gentle transition to using products in the ag sector that could be recycled or were compostable,” Kelly says. “And that we build a recycling system that could actually handle like a salad package or a clam shell. Instead, what we’ve gotten is something that still says, ‘By 2027 if your recycling rate isn’t 25%, you’re potentially banned.”

Delihant says there is an immediate need for those in the fresh produce industry to review this final draft and submit comments on the potential impacts of this regulation. CalRecycle will accept comments on this draft regulation through Friday, Feb. 13.

“We just need people to raise the alarm loud enough that they actually do change the wording and send it back out for another 15 days,” she says.

What Changed?

Kelly says SB 54 was a tough bill for the produce industry from the start, but he adds the change in these regulations has made it worse.

“It was an unreasonable bill, and these regulations now are unreasonable,” he says. “They don’t make packaging impossible, but they’re going to make it very difficult.”

Western Growers broke down the key changes and points of note, which include the addition of the word “mandatory”, which Delihant says puts additional responsibility on growers. Western Growers says growers must now prove no alternative packaging is FSMA, California law and FDA food-contact rules compliant, that liners, coatings and closures cannot resolve conflicts, that a redesign would fail safety or legal requirements and more. Western Growers’ analysis can be found online .

Both Kelly and Delihant say the original draft of the regulations had exemptions carved out for fresh produce that would both encourage progress, but not set unrealistic deadlines and standards.

“They think it would be easy for us to comply, but they have no clue what it would take to gather that information to submit,” Delihant says. “That’s why we’re asking everybody to please write to the governor’s office, write to Cal Recycle and provide comments in the hope they will fix this language.”

Kelly and Delihant say this new draft also makes the exemption process much more difficult and costly for growers. Kelly says while growers can apply for exemptions to not meet the recycle rates, but they will still need to pay the fees.

“Not only are you going to get whacked around the fees, you’re going to have to pay consultants every two to five years to go argue that there’s no possible alternative to the packaging you’re using, and the information they’re asking for is crazy,” Kelly says.

Delihant says what also makes this difficult is the infrastructure to recycle the types of material used currently doesn’t exist. So, it’s incredibly difficult to meet a 50% recycling benchmark by 2030 and the 100% by 2032. And federal food safety guidelines highlight the need for breathable packaging to prevent pathogens.

“We showed CalRecycle, that we are complying with the guidance documents, and that currently we have a hardship in that we don’t have the infrastructure for our products to be recycled yet. It went really well, until almost 15 days ago, when they issued a new draft that basically strips us of our categorical exclusion language,” she says.

Packaging’s Vital Role

Kelly says current produce packaging keeps fresh produce alive, while compostable and recycled packaging does not.

“Most compostable materials don’t breathe at all,” he says.

And Delihant says the industry has spent a lot of time, money and effort in packaging research and development to create what the industry uses today.

“We’ve come up with what we have now that you see in the produce section of the grocery store fully complies with federal rules, regulations and guidance documents for keeping food safe and keeping food fresh longer,” she says. “That’s the goal. Keep your food fresh, keep it alive, because it is alive. Keep it safe to eat and keep it fresh as long as possible.”

Kelly cites studies released by the Canadian government, which says banning produce packaging or pushing for alternatives would raise the price of produce at retail between 5% and 10%, require the hiring of more people and cause much more food waste.

“Jeff Brandenburg [president of The JSB Group and founding partner of QFresh Lab] always says, ‘We keep a living product alive.’ We’re the only packaging that has the honor of keeping a living product alive,” Kelly notes.

Kelly says plastic manufacturers in California lobbied the American Chemistry Council in the 2000s to organize and recycle plastics, but that never moved forward. He says it’s not as though the industry hasn’t worked to add compostable packaging, either — noting Emerald Packaging began offering a corn-based film to package spinach as early as 2002. But, it hasn’t been widely adopted, and that’s part of the issue with scale and capacity, which has widely remained around the same as 2002.

“The problem with all these materials is that they’re expensive, so people don’t switch to them, so the capacity is never built,” he says. “If you were to try and replace the billions of pounds of material that’s used across the United States … there’s a whole petrochemical industry that’s built around this.”

And he says this regulation will require wholesale changes to the entire fresh produce supply chain.

“The world doesn’t work this way,” he says. “There isn’t an infinite capital out there to spend on projects like this, where you’re not going to get a return.”

What Happens Next?

Delihant says CalRecycle will review and respond to all comments submitted by Friday, Feb. 13. If the fresh produce industry successfully raises the alarm, updates would have to go through another comment period.

“We’ve been told they don’t want to do that because there are dates certain in the law that must be met, and those are coming up in April and this summer,” Delihant says.

And Delihant says growers should look to Oregon and Colorado to see what’s coming as producers have received Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) invoices to mitigate the pollution caused by plastic packaging. She says this means growers are spending thousands and thousands of dollars on these fees.

She says these implications will extend way beyond Oregon, Colorado or California, but will impact any company shipping packaged produce into those states.

“You could be growing in Arizona, and packing in Arizona and shipping into Oregon and Colorado,” she says. “You’re going to pay the fees. You could be growing in Florida and shipping into California. With this regulation, you’re going to be paying fees in every single one of the states.”

Kelly, too, says he doesn’t see an outright plastics ban with this regulation as the fees gathered by Circular Action Alliance through the recycling of clamshells and flexible packaging will help fund the recycling infrastructure for the organization.

“It’s not that packaging will disappear,” he says. “It’s going to become a lot more expensive now that may chase it off the shelves. But for CAA certainly, there’s no economic incentive here for them to demand that food packaging get banned.”

Kelly also points out advocating for plastics in the specialty crop industry will not be a one-and-done type of movement. He says the industry will need to continue to be engaged. Much like the adage, of “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu,” that’s the role specialty crop growers will need to play in the future.

“Individual growers and shippers have to stay involved,” he says. “This rock is going to roll over people if they don’t push it uphill.”

Consumers Want Sustainable Packaging and Companies are Making it Happen

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:06:53 GMT

“Sustainable packaging” can have various meanings to different people. Though this offers a challenge, packaging companies are trying to meet consumer and retailer demands while also looking forward to the fruits of innovation.

To be clear: Sustainable produce packaging is important to consumers and retailers. Really, really important.

For example, 79% of consumer respondents to The Packer’s Sustainability Insights 2025 survey said sustainable packaging in fresh produce was important, very important or extremely important to them. Purchasing produce with eco-friendly packaging was also the most commonly selected answer among respondents to the question, “What are you personally doing, or would you like to do, to pursue a sustainable lifestyle?”

Similarly, 93% of retail respondents ranked recyclable packaging as the most important item to their business in terms of its ability to impact the sustainability of the supply chain. Biodegradable packaging came in at No. 2, with 92% of respondents ranking it at some level of importance. Compostable packaging was No. 4, with 86% of respondents indicating importance.

So, the value placed on sustainable packaging is clear. What isn’t is what sustainable packaging even means.

For example, when asked what sustainable packaging in fresh produce means to them, 29% of consumer respondents said it needs to be recyclable, 28% said bio-based, 26% said made from recycled materials and 14% said compostable. However, almost half of respondents (49%) said sustainable packaging needs to include all of those traits.

This all-of-the-above answer would only practically be met today by specific types of uncoated molded fiber and paperboard packaging. While this packaging segment is growing , it is not (yet) suitable for all types of produce and applications.

Meeting Today’s Sustainability Demands

Despite the uncertainty over definitions, companies are trying to deliver on what consumers want and what the companies themselves see as sustainable produce packaging.

“‘Sustainable’ gets thrown around so much that it has come close to signifying nothing,” says Kevin Kelly, CEO of Emerald Packaging. In his perspective, many companies focus on mono-material packaging in pursuit of sustainable since such packaging can, theoretically, be recycled. For him, however, sustainable packaging means packaging that is compostable or uses post-consumer recycled, or PCR, materials.

“That’s why we’ve joined the U.S. Flexible Film Initiative,” he adds, explaining that the effort seeks to make recycling flexible plastic packaging — widely used in fresh produce — economically viable and part of the circular economy just like other forms of plastic.

“Essentially, we’re subsidizing recyclers to reclaim plastics and make a profit,” he continues. “If we succeed, we hope the groups running extended producer responsibility programs like the Circular Action Alliance will step in and, with the funds they’ve collected, take the project over and expand it.”

Kelly also says Emerald Packaging is also experimenting with paper-based packaging that can be recycled or composted. There are challenges there, since work must be done around maintaining oxygen transmission rate and moisture vapor transmission, but he says the company is “teaming with folks we think can help us.”

For Orbis Corp., a reusable packaging products subsidiary of the North American supply-chain packaging company Menasha Corp., the best definition of sustainable packaging in fresh produce is “packaging that minimizes environmental impact across its entire life cycle,” says James Riegleman, senior product manager. When it comes to fresh produce, the company is answering this definition with a focus on reusable plastic totes and pallets that are eventually collected and recycled.

“According to the Reusable Packaging Association, the long service life of reusable packaging reduces environmental impact by enabling circularity, keeping packaging assets in active use for many years and ultimately recycling them into new products rather than sending them to the solid waste stream,” Riegleman says.

The company has its own recycling program to try to ensure this last element in the circular sustainability cycle happens.

“When our reusable totes and pallets reach the end of their service life, Orbis offers our Recycle with Orbis program where we recover, recycle and reprocess totes and bins into other useful products,” Riegleman says. “These programs offer our customers financial credit when recycling end-of-life products.”

TIPA Compostable Packaging is also focusing on the end of life of plastic packaging from a composting perspective.

Gary Tee, vice president of global converting for TIPA, notes the growth of consumer-level food composting services is a positive for sustainability. However, produce stickers were among the three most common contaminants for compost facilities.

“Because composting plants cannot remove them from their operations, these plastic-based stickers will eventually be spread on farmland,” he says. TIPA is trying to answer this problem with compostable produce stickers. It’s an easy solution, according to Tee.

“When consumers discard leftovers from their fresh produce, the PLU sticker adhered to the skin of the fruit or vegetable can be easily overlooked,” he explains. “If this sticker is made from certified compostable materials rather than non-compostable plastic, the plastic contamination challenge that compost operators face is removed at once.”

Future Fruits of Innovation

There is much to be excited about in the sustainable produce packaging space, according to sources. For example, while Kelly calls PCR materials a sustainable solution companies can lean into today, he looks forward to the results of ongoing materials innovation.

“I’m super excited about the technology developing in the compostable space, including the enthusiasm and commitment of the people driving the sector, who trend young and smart,” he says. “There are real interesting projects out there, like the seaweed-based material developed by Sway, and some companies with a bit more scale that can absorb demand right away.”

Kelly isn’t alone in eagerly anticipating new materials. Rebecca Marquez, director of custom research for the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI), says that is one of three major developments the group finds encouraging.

“We are keeping an eye on the breadth of materials and active-packaging innovation, particularly solutions focused on extending shelf life and reducing food waste, as demonstrated by [USDA’s Assisting Specialty Crop Exports]-funded projects,” she says.

Both Marquez and Riegleman are also excited about what the growth of automation upstream in the supply chain might mean for expanded use of reusable packaging. Marquez describes what amounts to a positive feedback loop between reusable packaging systems and automation, saying reusable packaging systems “open the door to integrated sensors and data collection because the packaging asset is used repeatedly.”

Marquez adds that the “significant momentum around data and software tools” is encouraging to PMMI.

“As supply chains become more connected, the challenge is no longer data availability, but instead, making that data actionable — something we believe will be transformational for sustainability decision-making, among other important decisions,” she says.

Rethinking Sustainable Packaging: From Materials to Function Focus

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 22:37:41 GMT

Consumers and retailers alike value sustainable packaging in produce . Meanwhile, packaging companies are trying to deliver on what they — and increasingly, regulators — demand: namely less packaging, more packaging that is made of recyclable materials or is recyclable itself, and reduced packaging waste, often with a sometimes single-minded focus on reducing plastic.

But what if those definitions of “sustainable packaging” miss the mark on sustainability for produce? That’s the argument some packaging sustainability experts are making.

“Ninety percent of what packaging does, it does before the consumer sees it,” says Dan Duguay, senior director of sustainability at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association. “So, it’s important when we talk about sustainable packaging that it’s not seen simply through the sliver of what the consumer sees.”

Sustainability Out of Consumer Sight and Mind

The role of produce packaging is to work throughout the supply chain — from harvest or packing to the end consumer — as well as extending shelf-life, reducing food waste, ensuring food safety, maximizing shipping efficiency and much more, Duguay says. But this widespread impact on the sustainability of the fresh produce supply chain occurs in ways the consumer would never see and likely rarely think about.

For example, he outlines what the shipping impact could be if a company switched from a light plastic clamshell to a thicker fiberboard packaging.

“[If] you make a packaging change and it reduces the packing density by 2%, you’ve gone from 100 trucks to 102 trucks to move the same amount of produce,” he explains. The pursuit of greater sustainability in one area — in this example, reduced plastic — could incur greater sustainability costs in shipping, but those sustainability costs aren’t ones consumers usually see.

Shelf life and food waste are other areas consumers don’t always notice or understand well when considering sustainability. Still, the potential for packaging choices to impact those sustainability issues cannot be ignored, Duguay argues.

“If you move from packaging that gives you a shelf life of four days and a shrink rate of 4%, and it shifts to two days and 14%, is that a sustainable package if it’s slightly more recyclable than the previous package?” he explains.

That’s the fuller question of sustainability in produce packaging, Duguay says: “Those relationships between the packaging decision and those outcomes [are] what we define as sustainable packaging.”

We Must Move Beyond Materials

The narrow consumer-facing focus on reducing packaging and especially plastic is understandable, according to Rebecca Marquez, director of custom research for the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI). She sums up the reason for that focus as driven by three main elements:

Retailer commitments, such as 2030 sustainability goals.
Regulatory momentum, such as extended producer responsibility (EPR) efforts.
The high visibility of plastic and plastic waste to consumers.

While understandable, the attention on plastic and its reduction is insufficient for the sustainability needs of the fresh produce industry, Marquez continues.

“The more appropriate focus should be on reducing overall environmental impact, not simply eliminating a material category,” she says. “We’d like people to understand that ‘plastic-free’ does not automatically mean ‘more sustainable.’ In many produce applications, plastic enables [modified atmosphere packaging] that significantly extends shelf life. Replacing it without a functional alternative can increase food waste, which has its own environmental cost.”

Marquez outlined PMMI’s perspective that sustainable produce packaging should be defined as something along the following lines: Packaging that protects food safety and quality while minimizing total environmental impact across the full life cycle — through right-sizing, reuse where feasible, and compatibility with real-world recycling and composting systems.

“This definition is aligned with what we consistently see across our research: Sustainability in produce cannot be separated from performance,” she says, adding that PMMI has found “that the biggest sustainability gains can come from systems-based solutions” rather than focusing on materials alone.

Duguay says he fears that as long as conversation around sustainability fixates on the end of life for packaging, and plastic packaging in particular, “we will incur these unintended negative consequences on those supply chains.” Instead, he says, “We need to talk about packaging, not just as an inert thing, but as the fact that it packages something and that what it packages really defines how effective, how sustainable that packaging is.”

That something is, of course, fresh produce, which is much different from most other packaged products that reach consumers.

“As soon as it’s cut, it’s dying,” Duguay says. “What needs to happen is a recognition that we’re actually shipping something that’s alive, and that the packaging, in many instances, is quite important to ... maximizing that life before it gets to you.”

Demand Helps Flexible Packaging Solidify Its Position

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:20:07 GMT

Flexible packaging is big business in the U.S.

The 2024 “State of the U.S. Flexible Packaging Industry Report” released earlier this year by the Annapolis, Md.-based Flexible Packaging Association says the industry was estimated to reach $42.9 billion in annual sales in 2023. That figure was expected to reach $47.3 billion in 2028, says Dan Felton, FPA president and CEO.

Flexible packaging represented 20% of the $210.8 billion U.S. packaging market, he says.

Converters (those who shape pre-made materials into a finished product) and suppliers who responded to the survey both listed sustainability as a top priority, he says.

Converters listed “Recycle Ready” as their top sustainable packaging option (85%); an “All PP” or mixed polyolefin structure consisting of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) was next (80%); and “Post-consumer Recycled (PCR)” resin was third (77%).

“Paper” was listed by 58% of converters, and “Compostable” was listed by 56%.

These packaging materials and options align with the general sustainability trends that many brand owners look for as they strive to meet their long-term sustainability goals and consumer demands, Felton says.

They’ll likely remain a key trend for all packaging formats in the foreseeable future if for no other reason than the rise in EPR laws.

Felton says industry-friendly and thoughtful EPR (extended producer responsibility) laws could help flexible packaging manufacturers and their customers increase the production of sustainable packaging while minimizing potential consumer costs and convenience impacts.

“Conversely, more onerous EPR laws, like those enacted in California in 2022, could have the opposite effect, raising consumer costs for more sustainable packaging or even banning it outright,” he says.

Flexible pouches continue to lead the charge in terms of format trends, Felton says.

“Their rise is driven by consumer demand for convenience, brand demand for differentiation and industry demand for sustainability,” he says.

Flexible pouches are lightweight, space-efficient, require fewer raw materials and emit fewer greenhouse gases during their manufacture compared to rigid formats, Felton says.

Estimated shipment value of plastic bag and pouch manufacturing reached $15.2 billion in 2022 and is projected to rise to $15.7 billion by 2025, according to the economic analysis group Inforum.

Emerald Packaging Eliminates Over 1M Pounds of Virgin Plastic with Help of Partners, Including Walmart

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 21:26:50 GMT

Emerald Packaging, a Union City, Calif.-based supplier of retail flexible packaging for the produce industry, has hit a major sustainability milestone, replacing over one million pounds of virgin polyethylene (PE) with post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, a move it says is a step forward in establishing a circular economy.

Emerald Packaging recently made headlines , when it partnered with Idaho Package, Wada Farms and Walmart to introduce the first 30% food contact PCR bag for the potato category, a project that both pushed the limits of PCR and aligned with Walmart’s Project Gigaton, which targets a 1 billion metric ton emission reduction by 2030.

To date, thanks to the 30% PCR potato bag, Walmart has eliminated more than 200,000 pounds of virgin plastic in its potato packaging.

“I think Walmart gave us legitimacy,” says Emerald Packaging CEO Kevin Kelly, who adds that packing potatoes is a “brutal” business. “Ten pounds of potatoes drop 5 feet into a bag that’s then dropped on a conveyor.”

“The bag has got to have a lot of strength, and you’d think with PCR, that might be compromised, and if you were just using straight PCR, it probably would be, but by blending it with other materials, it’s able to handle the load,” he adds.

D’Arrigo California, a leading romaine shipper, was the first to partner with Emerald on 30% PCR packaging. The companies rolled out PCR bags across D’Arrigo’s entire product line, including romaine lettuce hearts and iceberg lettuce, resulting in the elimination of more than 500,000 pounds of virgin plastic from the supply chain.

“D’Arrigo were the ones who jumped on board first, and it took a bit of courage on their part, because nobody was using PCR in the market, certainly nobody was using it at a 30% level, so I am grateful to them for really getting us started,” he says.

Kevin Kelly is CEO of the Union City, Calif.-based Emerald Packaging.

(Photo courtesy of Emerald Packaging )

The road to sustainable packaging success has been a long one, Kelly says. For more than two decades, the California Green Business has been at the forefront of sustainable produce packaging solutions, which until now, “have never really had legs,” due to the cost question, he says.

Given this milestone has been decades in the making, how does it feel to eliminate 1 million pounds of virgin plastic?

“I just have gratitude for getting to this moment, because I’ve always wanted to have an environmental achievement, especially given the reputation plastics have, and so to finally be able to do this is just thrilling,” Kelly says.

Integrating PCR materials not only diverts plastic waste from landfills but also significantly reduces the carbon emissions associated with the production of virgin plastic, he says. According to a 2004 study by University of California scientists, increasing the use of PCR has the most significant impact on waste plastic tonnage and GHG reduction compared to any other possible environmental action.

It’s improved packaging sustainability that’s gaining attention from a broader audience.

“For folks like Cal Recycle, as they’re putting the regs in place for SB 54, they can point to us and say what PCR can be used in food packaging and propose mandates for it,” Kelly says. “What I’m hoping then will happen is that you’ll see more companies jump into the PCR market.”

More packaging companies in the market could also mean more demand for reprocessors, some of which have closed in recent years.

“If any more close, PCR might be in trouble, and it shouldn’t be that way,” he says.

With an eye to the bigger environmental picture, Kelly views competitors entering the 30% PCR packaging space as a boon.

“There’s other potato packers now coming forward, wanting to use it, and we’re seeing other companies like Fox Packaging start to market 30% PCR,” he says. “Having a competitor adopt this product means less plastics, so I take it as a positive sign.”

Others Leading the Charge

Kelly also points to industry organizations including Western Growers Association and the Canadian Produce Marketing Association as leading the sustainable packaging charge with their members.

“Those guys are nails on packaging,” he says. “They have educated themselves on packaging issues, they’re talking to their members, and they’re banging the drum on getting realistic about what’s going to be required of them, in terms of environmental mandates.”

They’re also talking to regulators about what’s realistic for produce packaging, Kelly says, who adds: “You can’t use PCR right now, for instance, in salad packaging. If you use 20% or 30% PCR in the packaging, the oxygen transmission rate variability would go to 20% to 25%, and the standard is plus or minus 10%, but really it is plus or minus 5%. Twenty percent variation is just going to lead to a lot of food waste.”

Adding to the challenge is that packaging and reporting requirements differ from state to state.

To help navigate these regulatory complexities, Emerald has hired a government affairs adviser and is sharing that resource with industry organizations.

“Packaging has become as important to folks as water,” Kelly says. “It probably ranks second to water, but it’s way up the chart compared to where it was 10 years ago.”

Your next read: Walmart Introduces First 30% Post-Consumer Recycled Bag for Retail Potatoes

How Packaging Suppliers Deliver on Sustainable Needs

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:50:05 GMT

Sustainable packaging continues to be a recurring discussion topic among produce brands and the consumers who buy them. That, in turn, is prompting manufacturers to keep up their mission of helping customers meet their sustainability goals as they fill their packaging solutions.

Here’s how some packaging suppliers are working toward those sustainability goals.

Fox Packaging

Interest in sustainable packaging remains strong, says Aaron Fox, vice president at McAllen, Texas-based Fox Packaging.

“Our customers are increasingly asking for recyclable options, responsible material choices and support in meeting their private-label sustainability commitments,” Fox explains.

“Private-label programs set clear value promises with their in-store brands, so packaging art and design must reinforce that promise while also meeting recycled content targets and reporting expectations,” he says.

Fox Packaging’s long-range plans focus on expanding its PCR (post-consumer recycled) portfolio, where it aligns with performance, exploring downgauged structures that use less material without compromising product protection and helping customers communicate sustainability claims accurately and responsibly, he says.

“We emphasize clarity and compliance rather than broad or unsupported statements,” Fox adds.

Sev-Rend

Collinsville, Ill.-based Sev-Rend has taken a commonsense approach to developing its sustainable products portfolio, says Rob Williams, president and CEO.

The company stays abreast of available alternate materials, like options that are compostable or bio-renewable, but finds that these materials tend to be too expensive for many customers.

“They are unable to absorb the additional cost, and retailers are unwilling to pay more for them,” he says.

But Sev-Rend’s Bio-Able and PCR-Able product lines are comparatively more affordable and provide sustainable options for customers at competitive prices, according to Williams.

“We also work closely with customers to ‘right-size’ products to reduce head space and the amount of plastic required for their packaging,” he says. “We continue to look for opportunities to downgauge materials where it makes sense and remove unnecessary features when possible.”

For example, he says removing the press-to-close zipper from a 2-pound grape pouch can reduce the amount of plastic in the pouch by 16%.

Emerald Packaging

Over the past year, Emerald Packaging, Union City, Calif., has incorporated more than 1 million pounds of PCR resin into its films, says CEO Kevin Kelly.

“At a 30% PCR loading, this means we directly replaced more than 1 million pounds of virgin polyethylene that would otherwise have been used — without requiring any changes to existing packaging formats or packer processes,” he says.

The company’s near-term goal is to drive broader industry adoption of PCR, Kelly says, and its long-term goal remains to achieve “true curbside recyclability for flexible packaging.”

“As a company, we continue to design for recovery, a philosophy we actively educate brands about,” he says.

Fresh Inset

Fresh Inset, with a U.S. location in Memphis, Tenn., reduces food waste and associated carbon dioxide emissions with Vidre+, which helps maintain product freshness on the shelf and during transport, says Kris Czlaplicki, co-founder and board member.

Czlaplicki sees a future where packaging will no longer be passive and smart labels will help build more efficient, data-driven and sustainable food systems. He thinks Vidre+ is the first step in that direction: a simple, scalable solution that directly reduces waste and brings benefits to every stakeholder of the supply chain.

“The future could integrate freshness solutions with traceability and digital tools, enabling retailers to monitor quality, reduce carbon footprint and optimize supply chains,” he says. “We see Vidre+ as both a solution for today and a platform for the next generation of smart packaging.”

Packaging Companies Spotlight New Product Offerings

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:49:01 GMT

Packaging manufacturers recently shared a look at some of their latest offerings.

Fresh Inset

The flagship product at Fresh Inset is Vidre+, “a breakthrough new delivery system” for 1-MCP (an ethylene inhibitor) in the form of stickers or labels and direct-to-packaging applications, says Kris Czlaplicki, co-founder and board member.

Until now, 1-MCP was only used in cold rooms for apples and pears, he says, but Vidre+ extends its use to most fruits, vegetables and flowers. It offers controlled release, requires no airtightness and can be integrated into labels, films or heat-seals, effectively bringing cold-room functionality directly into the packaging,” he says.

“Vidre+ offers controlled release, requires no airtightness and can be integrated into labels, films or heat-seals — effectively bringing cold-room functionality directly into the packaging,” he says.

Since every crop, supply chain and packhouse is different, Vidre+ was designed with flexibility in mind, Czlaplicki says.

“It can be deployed as a sticker, carton insert or integrated into BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene) sleeves, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) lidding films and PE (polyethylene) bags,” he says.

Emerald Packaging

Emerald Packaging in Union City, Calif., is committed to sustained growth with a $6 million to $7 million capital expenditure planned for 2026, says CEO Kevin Kelly.

“This includes investments in modern, highly efficient printing, slitting and perforating equipment, each designed to meet the evolving demands of the produce industry,” he says.

The company also continues to strengthen its infrastructure, which includes an expansion of its solar-powered manufacturing capabilities, he adds.

Fox Packaging

Over the past year, McAllen, Texas-based Fox Packaging has continued to expand its packaging portfolio and its sustainable material options, says Aaron Fox, vice president.

“One of our newest additions is Fox VertiFilm, a laminated film band designed for mesh and net produce bags,” he says. “It provides enhanced strength, product protection and strong shelf presence, giving retailers a cleaner, more premium look at point of sale.”

Fox VertiFilm is engineered for operational efficiency and is compatible with all leading packing machines, he says.

Fox says that with the company’s vendor-managed inventory in McAllen, it’s able to support fast and reliable fulfillment for growers and packers across the U.S.

“We have also expanded our use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content and now offer select poly, combo and stand-up pouch structures with up to 30% PCR,” Fox says.

“Overall, our focus remains on delivering packaging solutions that strengthen product protection, improve operational efficiency and support long-term sustainability goals,” he adds.

Sev-Rend

After years of importing clipping wire cassettes from Europe, Collinsville, Ill.-based Sev-Rend has invested in equipment to manufacture the cassettes in-house, says Rob Wiliams, president and CEO.

“This not only guarantees a continued supply of clipping wire for our customers but also ensures we are able to continue to provide a high-quality product at a competitive price,” he says.

The company also has expanded its product lines to include microwave steamable FFS (form, fill and seal) films and anti-fog; ventilated lidding films for tomatoes, berries, mushrooms and other high-moisture content products thanks to the addition of hot needle and macro perforating equipment, he says.

Sev-Rend has developed filmic and heat seal paper roll stocks that are compatible with machines that form and fill pouches inline from roll stock.

“These types of machines provide savings not only in labor, but also in material and transportation costs,” Wiliams says.

The company also has modified its stand-up pouch machines so they’re capable of manufacturing “pouches on a roll” for those who are looking for a domestic source for this style of pouch, he says, and it has added the ability to produce extruded mesh equipment in-house to maintain the supply chain and keep pricing competitive, he says.

Challenges Linger for Sustainable Packaging Initiatives

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 03:19:18 GMT

When it comes to setting sustainability goals, it appears that some major U.S. brands may have overshot their targets.

RaboResearch, part of Rabobank, a multinational banking and financial services company, found that many major U.S. brands are scaling back packaging sustainability goals they set for 2025 because of economic, regulatory and infrastructure hurdles.

“This shift marks a broader transition from aspirational pledges to pragmatic strategies, where policy, cost-efficiency and measurable outcomes are taking precedence over idealistic goals,” according to research released in July, titled “ The Great Pullback: How waning sustainability ambitions impact U.S. packaging producers .”

Jim Owen, senior packaging and logistics analyst for RaboResearch and the study’s author, says the change, while a challenge for plastics suppliers, presents an opportunity to “move from being passive suppliers to strategic partners, helping brands navigate a more regulated, performance-driven sustainability landscape.”

Packaging suppliers seem to be on board with Rabobank’s findings.

Sustainable packaging is more expensive, and it often has reduced mechanical properties that make it inferior to standard materials, says Rob Williams, president and CEO of Collinsville, Ill.-based Sev-Rend.

“Companies have invested millions of dollars in packaging equipment that is often incompatible with sustainable materials,” he says. “The cost to retrofit or change their packaging processes makes it a challenge to consider and adopt more sustainable packaging.”

Wiliams says he’s starting to see “sustainability fatigue” creep in.

“It’s more important now than ever that we continue to work closely with our customers to navigate the current sustainability environment,” he says.

Active and sustainable packaging often struggles to scale because of cost pressures, capital expenditure (CAPEX) requirements and complex regulatory landscapes, says Kris Czlaplicki, co-founder and board member of Fresh Inset, which has a U.S. location in Memphis, Tenn.

Success depends on close collaboration with converters, label manufacturers, equipment suppliers and growers across multiple regions to standardize processes and ensure reliable performance, he says.

With its Vidre+ technology, the company has learned that “the only viable path is to create a solution that improves economics across the entire packaging value chain, not adds cost,” Czlaplicki says.

Aaron Fox, vice president at McAllen, Texas-based Fox Packaging, says designing sustainable packaging is a balancing act.

“Every decision has cost, performance and infrastructure considerations that have to be weighed carefully,” he says.

“Sustainable packaging has to work in the real world,” adds Victoria Lopez, marketing and business development manager for the company. “Customers are very interested in greener options, but they still make decisions based on price, performance and lead time.”

The role of Fox Packaging is “to recommend structures where PCR (post-consumer recycled) or downgauging genuinely reduces waste and supports their goals, rather than changing materials just to add a marketing claim to the bag,” she says.

Flexible packaging plays a critical sustainability role, but producing sustainable packaging comes with real challenges, says Kevin Kelly, CEO at Emerald Packaging, Union City, Calif.

“Many brands remain unwilling to pay the premium for recycled materials or to fund the infrastructure needed for true circularity,” he says.

Emerald Packaging advocates for commonsense regulations that recognize the full life-cycle impact of flexible packaging, Kelly says.

“We’ve embedded a design-for-recovery approach — integrating PCR, exploring compostable and curbside-recyclable structures and supporting pathways toward scalable recycling,” he says.

But he adds that education is key.

The company guides brands and growers, often working through industry organizations, to reach “realistic sustainability goals that balance performance, cost and policy requirements,” he says.

Participation in high-profile voluntary initiatives is waning, Rabobank’s Owen says in his research. Future success will require proactive leadership.

“The companies that appear best positioned for the road ahead are not necessarily those making the loudest sustainability claims,” he says. “It’s the companies that are adapting most strategically — supporting brand customers as they recalibrate expectations, face growing regulatory pressure and manage tighter cost realities.”

From Shipping to Store, Why the Right Packaging Matters for Citrus

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:33:57 GMT

Choosing the right packaging option for the right commodity is key to ensure quality arrivals when shipping Texas citrus, says Aaron Fox, executive vice president at McAllen, Texas-based Fox Packaging.

“Each product shines when the right bag is chosen,” he says.

For Texas oranges, shippers rely on three main formats, Fox says.

Leno bags are used for bulk programs because the material is strong and holds up across long runs.
Fox Fresh Mesh Combo in the 1-to-20-pound range accommodates retail packs.
Fresh VertiFilm provides a big print window and tidy shelf presence for retail formats from 1-to-8-pounds.

Standardized pack sizes help retailers hold predictable price points, which supports steadier supply across the season, Fox says.

Weight and rind care drive the choice for Texas grapefruit, explains Victoria Lopez, marketing and business development manager.

“Leno is a strong option for bulk and heavier packs because it resists tearing and breathes well in transit,” she says.

“Many shippers also choose Fresh Mesh Combo in the 5-to-10-pound range, and we are seeing an 8-pound, club-size trend gaining traction for its balance of value and carry comfort,” Lopez says.

A well-vented film format can work for smaller counts or gift-style presentation, provided ventilation stays high and handle strength is up to the task, she adds.

No matter what packaging option one chooses, keeping fruit dry, cool and well-ventilated from pack-out to the back room is a must, Lopez says.

“Start with dry, pre-cooled fruit and give it a package that breathes so you do not trap humidity against the rind,” she says.

Maintain the cold chain, but don’t cool grapefruit too much to reduce the risk of chilling injury, Lopez says. Keep the relative humidity high enough to limit weight loss.

A couple other suggestions: “Choose pack weights that match the commodity and route, spec reinforced handles and seams for heavier SKUs, use vented shippers or reusable plastic containers to keep air moving through the pallet, and avoid ethylene-heavy mixed loads, when possible,” Lopez advises.

Hazel Technologies Expands Partnership with QFresh Lab

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:50:00 GMT

Hazel Technologies, a company that focuses on extending the shelf-life of fresh produce, said in a news release that it has extended its partnership with QFresh Labs, an independent postharvest physiology lab. The companies say QFresh Labs will provide additional support in postharvest physiology, sustainable packaging resources and lab testing while continuing to support Hazel Technologies’ Breatheway product.

“With this expanded partnership, we seek to penetrate new market segments such as floral, seafood, meats and coffee,” says Parker Booth, CEO for Hazel Technologies. “The Breatheway membrane used in conjunction with specialty packaging companies’ offerings is a key growth opportunity we can capitalize on.”

Hazel Technologies says it has worked with QFresh Lab for nearly two years, with QFresh supporting Hazel Technologies’ sourcing of unique packaging films to augment its Breatheway technology. Qfresh Lab offers postharvest physiology resources, respiration rate (RR) analysis, package design, shelf-life testing, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and more.

“With the unique gas transmission features of Hazel’s Breatheway membrane combined with its temperature modulation properties, we are very excited to add our expertise and see how far we can take this unique postharvest packaging technology,” says Jeffrey Brandenburg, founder of QFresh Lab.

Fruitist Closes $150M in Funding to Accelerate Retail Expansion of Jumbo Blueberries

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:15:07 GMT

Fruitist, a Los Angeles-based global superfruit brand known for its Jumbo brand blueberries, has closed $150 million in equity financing that it says will accelerate its expansion at retail, which currently includes distribution in stores such as Costco, Giant, Publix, ShopRite, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wakefern, Walmart, Whole Foods Market and more.

“The funding will support continued expansion of our supply to meet the strong and growing demand for our Jumbo blueberries, which currently exceeds available volume, and to accelerate investment in our technology and AI capabilities, particularly in predicting the fruit’s optimal pick time to ensure superior quality and flavor,” says Steve Magami, co-founder and CEO of Fruitist.

Led by a vehicle managed by J.P. Morgan Asset Management, alongside other new and existing investors, the new capital will fuel Fruitist’s global expansion and help meet soaring consumer demand for healthier, fresher alternatives to processed snacks, Magami says.

The company’s premium superfruits are currently sold in more than 12,500 retail locations across North America and 40 countries worldwide.

Eyeing the $600 billion global snacking market, Fruitist says it aims to set a new standard for what consumers expect from fresh fruit snacking. With this goal in mind, earlier this year, the company introduced Fruitist Snack Cups, single-serve, grab-and-go packs of fresh blueberries.

“Packaging is a significant factor in driving momentum in produce snacking,” says Magami. “Our Snack Cups make it easier than ever for consumers to grab fresh, premium blueberries on the go. It’s bridging the gap between the produce aisle and the convenience of the snack aisle.

“It also demonstrates that design and functionality are crucial,” Magami continues. “Clear, recyclable cups highlight fruit quality while making portioning simple. That format brings new consumers into the category and encourages repeat purchase behavior that retailers love.”

Fruitist says it will continue to innovate in snacking formats and plans to expand its Snack Cup line with the introduction of new premium fruits like blackberries, raspberries and cherries with the same focus on flavor, consistency and convenience it offers in blueberries.

The company has also launched Fruitist Legends, a new SKU of its largest and best berries.

Through partnerships with star quarterback Caleb Williams, USC Athletics, and D.C. United, Fruitist says it’s extending beyond retail shelves, promoting healthier snacking to athletes, students and communities.

From Agrovision to Fruitist

Formerly known as Agrovision, Fruitist has evolved from an agriculture-first enterprise into a global consumer brand, the company says.

“The name change was a strategic move to align the company’s name with our mission and our flagship consumer brand, which was already Fruitist,” Magami says. “Agrovision was our operations name, but ‘Fruitist’ better captures our identity as a global brand dedicated to premium, nutritious snacking.”

Magami says the market reaction has been excellent and recognition is growing rapidly among both retailers and consumers.

“Fruitist is now one of the fastest-growing healthy snack brands,” he says. “Consumer demand is what fuels our growth. We have surpassed $400 million in annual sales and over $1 billion in lifetime sales. This is driven by strong repeat purchase behavior; consumers trust the Fruitist brand to deliver a consistently premium experience every time.”

Bee Sweet Citrus Introduces New Packaging

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:17:14 GMT

Bee Sweet Citrus , a grower, packer and shipper, says it will kick off its new season by debuting a new booth, packaging and more at the International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce and Floral Show.

Bee Sweet Citrus says its California-grown grapefruit, Meyer lemons, lemons, Golden Gem grapefruit and pummelos are available as it transitions from summer imports to its domestic program.

“Last year, our team debuted our premium citrus line at IFPA’s fall show and received positive feedback from customers,” says Monique Mueller, director of communications for Bee Sweet Citrus. “This year, we’re pleased to announce that we’ve expanded our line to include Heirloom Navels, and its packaging will be on display at our booth.”

The company says its sales and upper management team will attend this year and will be available to discuss variety availability, seasonal marketing opportunities and more at its booth No. 1293.

Naturipe’s Berry Scary Packaging Hits Stores for Halloween

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 12:28:22 GMT

On Oct. 14, Naturipe Farms announced its Halloween-themed Berry Scary, a limited-edition 12 oz. package of fresh blueberries and blackberries in seasonal packaging. The company says the specially packed berry offerings are shipping now and will reach Kroger and select Wakefern stores by mid-October.

“Berry Scary is fun, convenient, and appealing to families looking for healthier treats this season,” says John Johnston, director of premium products at Naturipe Farms. “Retailers who embrace seasonal packaging see a measurable boost in sales, and this launch is designed to do just that. We’re really excited about this project — it’s a great way to lean into the season while continuously putting excellent quality products on the shelves.”

The limited-edition packaging is decorated with a monster mascot and a vertical design. However, the company says that while the themed packaging is limited time, its berries aren’t.

“Thanks to our growing partners throughout North and South America, our berries keep their spellbinding flavor and frightful freshness year-round,” the company said in a news release.

Stemilt Adds New Pear Packaging Options

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:56:07 GMT

Stemilt Growers says it has two new packaging options as part of its pear program: a mixed variety bag called Prism Pears for conventional fruit, and two 4-count EZ Band paperboard consumer packs for conventional and organic pears.

Stemilt Marketing Director Brianna Shales says the new packages help retailers find solutions for merchandising pears.

Prism Pears is a new mixed-pear bag that combines green, red and brown pears in a 2-pound or 3-pound poly bag and is available in conventional. Stemilt plans to add organic availability soon.

Shales also says Stemilt has expanded its EZ Band for conventional green d’anjou and red pears. She says the EZ Band will ship in a Euro footprint box with eight 4-count units in each master.

“These packaging additions are in line with Stemilt’s ongoing investment in pears from the orchard with the new Happi Pear to state-of-the-art packing and now to innovative packaging solutions to help retailers drive sales,” Shales says.

Stemilt will showcase these new packaging options at the International Fresh Produce Association’s upcoming Global Produce and Floral Show at booth No. 2847.

Pear Outlook

Stemilt says the most recent forecast from the Washington State Tree Fruit Association shows that this season’s pear volumes are 58% higher than last year’s, with organic pears expected to increase by 73%.

Shales says this means Stemilt will have a reliable supply and strong promotion opportunities for conventional and organic pears, especially winter varieties like d’anjou, red pears and bosc.

“With bigger volumes of pears this year, packaged programs can help create incremental sales opportunities and make pears easier for shoppers to buy,” Shales says. “Prism Pears is a way to highlight multiple pear varieties in a single bag and encourage consumers to try a pear they may not have before, while the paperboard EZ Band option helps build visibility for large-medium sized pears. Retailers can rely on Stemilt to have a good supply this season and the tools to see success in the pear category.”

Shales says that promoting pears will be a key this year, especially organic pears. Retailers can pair them with in-store events such as Pear Month in December or create more display space to help pears stand out and drive additional movement.

“The addition of Prism Pears and new EZ Band packaging options gives retailers choices in how they merchandise pears this season to see incremental sales,” Shales says. “With more fruit to move, we want to make sure pears are easy to merchandise and appealing to shoppers, whether conventional or organic.”

New Greens Blends, Eco-Friendly Packaging from Earthbound Farms

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:41:09 GMT

Salinas, Calif.-based Earthbound Farm, announced Oct. 9 that it will feature new greens blends at the upcoming International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, Calif., Oct. 16-18. The company says it will also present new size and variety additions in the Plant Tray, which uses recycled plant fibers.

“This year at IFPA we’re excited to introduce our new Beet Greens blend and expanded offerings in our Plant Tray — products that reflect our ongoing focus on solutions that improve health and experience while reducing environmental impact,” says Jenny Panziera, director of product, organic salad and Earthbound Farm Brand.

“This show is a fantastic opportunity to highlight new ways to drive excitement and growth for the category. At Earthbound Farm, we’re continuing to deliver innovative, practical solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers while staying rooted in our commitment to sustainability and quality.”

On Friday, Oct. 17, and Saturday, Oct. 18, Earthbound Farm will host happy hour with beer and wine from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Booth No. 4139.

Walmart Introduces First 30% Post-Consumer Recycled Bag for Retail Potatoes

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:17:39 GMT

Driven by an ambitious goal to reduce packaging waste as part of its Project Gigaton — an initiative to reduce or avoid 1 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions from the global value chain by 2030 — Walmart, in partnership with Emerald Packaging, Idaho Package and Wada Farms, has introduced the first 30% food contact Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) bag for the potato category.

While Emerald Packaging, the Union City, Calif.-based supplier of retail flexible packaging behind the new PCR potato bag, launched a 30% PCR resin bag for D’Arrigo California’s Andy Boy romaine hearts last year, Emerald CEO Kevin Kelly wondered if the same could be done for a 5- or 10-pound bag of potatoes.

“Idaho Package read about the PCR bag we were doing with D’Arrigo Bros., and they called and asked whether we thought we could do one for their customer Wada Farms,” Kelly told The Packer. “What you really worry about with potato bags is: will the material be strong enough? Could PCR handle the weight? When you’re packing potatoes, you have five and 10 pounds of potatoes dropping into a bag on a ceiling line.”

Kelly says potato grower-shipper Wada Farms connected with the potato buyer at Walmart, and she was really excited about it, and the project “just rolled from there.”

And it rolled quickly, says Kelly. Idaho Package and Wada Farms started trialing PCR potato bags in the early fall of 2024, and later that year launched the product with Walmart. Today a dozen SKUs incorporate PCR resin. The reduction in virgin polyethylene plastic exceeds 100,000 pounds, and as of June 2025, Walmart continues to transition more root category SKUs to PCR.

Walmart, in partnership with Emerald Packaging, Idaho Package and Wada Farms, has launched sustainable packaging for the potato category.

(Photo courtesy of Emerald Packaging)

“I was really impressed with how fast Wada and Walmart moved and moved in tandem,” says Kelly. “They were really like a team. We all have this sense of Walmart being this big giant, but in this case, they were really collaborative.”

And when this retail giant makes a move in sustainability, it can have major impact.

“At Walmart, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact and offering our customers more sustainable choices,” Laura Himes, vice president of produce sourcing for Walmart, said in a news release. “We are proud to collaborate with Emerald Packaging, Idaho Package and Wada Farms to introduce the first 30% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) bag for the potato category. This initiative directly supports our goal to minimize waste with the integration of PCR content for retail packaging and demonstrates our dedication to working with suppliers who share our commitment to a more sustainable future.”

“There seems to be a commitment to using PCR at Walmart, and we were really excited by the opportunity to do it,” says Kelly, whose Emerald Packaging had been in the potato packaging business since the 1960s but had recently gotten out of it because it was no longer profitable.

“And now we’re back in after leaving the potato bag business five years ago. We’re back in it in a huge way, because suddenly we’ve got [to produce] 45 million potato bags or more a year,” he says.

Affordable and Sustainable Solution

One of the ongoing challenges with sustainable packaging has been the question of how much more the consumer is willing to pay for it. But the tide may be turning thanks to innovation and changing views on the value of sustainable solutions.

“We’ve worked on sustainable packaging initiatives for over 20 years, and PCR has emerged as the first affordable option ever,” says Kelly.

What’s more, says Kelly, companies have come to “appreciate what the packaging guys bring to the table.”

“There was so much respect towards us from the three other players involved in this, and I don’t think that would have been true a decade ago,” says Kelly. “I think then we were just looked at as a commodity, and now we’re looked at as a partner, and they’re looking to us for innovation.”

Emerald Packaging has been reinventing produce packaging for over 60 years and today is the largest plastic packaging manufacturer for produce in the U.S. For over two decades, it has led the industry in addressing plastic waste, most recently helping shape legislation in California that addresses the need for a better recycling infrastructure, says Kelly. Emerald also won a Green Business certification for its waste, water, and energy reduction efforts.

Rocket Farms to Debut New Line at IFPA Show

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 21:41:49 GMT

Half Moon Bay, Calif.-based Rocket Farms announced Sept. 25 that it will be at the upcoming IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, Calif., on Oct. 17-18. There, it will debut two new product lines:

Organic living clamshell herbs — These rooted, organic herbs come in a convenient clamshell to help deliver longer shelf life compared to traditional cut herbs.
Organic microgreens — This line includes five varieties of microgreens.

Rocket Farms says it has invested heavily in automation on its potted herb production lines, which has allowed it to bring innovative products like organic living herbs and microgreens to market. The new organic lines are also part of the company’s sustainability efforts, it adds, as well as its category innovation because living herbs reduce shrink and reduce waste, for example.

Attendees can visit Rocket Farms at Floral Booth No. 5706 and Produce Booth No. 4297.

Avocados From Mexico Pledges $30,000 for Cancer Screenings

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:31:33 GMT

As a new twist on their usual National Breast Cancer Awareness Month packaging promotion, Avocados From Mexico is putting money toward helping consumers get mammograms.

For the past four years, Avocados From Mexico has partnered with non-profit breast cancer organization Susan G. Komen to turn “produce aisles pink” in October to help drive awareness of the endemic disease. This year, under the co-branded “Don’t Just Check These: Check Yours” campaign, the partnership includes material help to consumers to actually get themselves checked.

“We’re pledging $30,000 on a national level to help women cover their cost of breast cancer screening,” explained Stephanie Bazan, AFM’s senior vice president of commercial strategy and execution, at a promotion preview event held in early September.

“This is something a little bit different that we’re doing this year, but it’s also really living up to the good cause claim that we’re making on our packaging and all of the materials that we’re promoting around our Susan G. Komen program.”

Consumers will be able to scan the QR codes on the promotional pink bags and be taken to AFM’s online mammography grant application . Through a partnership with Radiology Assist, the company is pledging up to $100 per patient, for a maximum of 300 applicants, to help cover the cost of a mammogram.

While most health insurances cover mammograms as a preventative health measure, if someone has to pay out of pocket, cost can be a barrier to access. Health care prices vary wildly based on location, but healthcare price tracker company GoodRx says the national average for the out-of-pocket cost for a basic 2D mammogram is $400. For a 3D mammogram, which can provide better information, the national average cost is $658.

“Everybody knows someone with either breast cancer in their family, friends, colleagues, etc.,” Bazan said. “It is one of the most common cancers among women in the U.S. So we continue to lean in on that given the importance of the female audience.”

Pink partnership packaging details

The QR code that takes consumers to the mammography grant application form is part of its promotional pink bags this year.

“Our pink bags are meant to bring attention to the cause by standing out in the produce aisle. Our ‘Don’t Just Check These: Check Yours’ is all about awareness and encouraging people to take time out of their busy days to learn about such an important issue,” Bazan said.

The partnership bags will be available to all retailers in the U.S. At the preview event, Bazan pointed out the campaign concept will be on the front, and the back will include a pink grapefruit guacamole recipe.

This year’s partnership also involves AFM donating $100,000 to Susan G. Komen.

“We’re incredibly proud to once again be partnering with Susan G. Komen to support the inspirational work they do, as well as help avocado lovers everywhere stay healthy for years to come.”

A New Look for Buddy’s Citrus This November

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 19:07:13 GMT

The Fresno, Calif.-based Trinity Fruit Company revealed the new look of its Buddy’s brand on Sept. 25. The update, debuting mandarins and full citrus line, features a new logo and all new packaging that will be available this November.

“We are really excited as a company to continue to grow our citrus program and to showcase our new look for our brand and packaging,” says Gunner White, vice president of Trinity Fruit.

“This was a very fun project that we worked on collectively as a team,” says Angela Hernandez, vice president of marketing.

“So much thought went into the brand and gave Buddy’s more of a personality as the consumers’ snack-time sidekick,” she adds. “ Our goal for this refresh was to create something that resonates with all shoppers, including moms, college students, wellness enthusiasts and even children, and to bring fun and bold colors to produce departments to entice shoppers to grab that snack-time sidekick.”

Trinity Fruit Company is a citrus grower-packer-shipper featuring conventional and organic easy peel mandarin varieties; specialty mandarins like page, dekopon and gold nugget varieties; lemons; cara cara navels; blood oranges; navel oranges; minneolas and more.

The company says it is also offering support for Buddy’s promotional efforts including digital campaigns, in-store demos, display bins and giveaways, with custom POS also available.

Packaging Partnership to Bring Q-Bic Tray to U.S.

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 18:32:28 GMT

Fresh produce packaging company NNZ Inc. has announced strategic partnerships with CKF Inc. and Stackpack/Halopack in Europe to expand the production of the Q-Bic tray in sustainable fiber and paperboard formats.

The Q-Bic tray, developed by Smart Packaging Industries, is a modular packaging concept designed for fresh produce. Its stackable cube-shaped design optimizes logistics, enabling up to 30% more product per pallet compared to conventional trays, according to the company. This results in fewer truckloads, reduced fossil fuel usage, and a measurable reduction in carbon footprint.

“Q-Bic was created with sustainability at its core,” says Patrick Boot, CEO of NNZ. “By collaborating with partners like CKF and Stackpack/Halopack, we are ensuring that Q-Bic continues to evolve with materials that meet both environmental goals and industry functionality.”

Q-Bic packaging is designed to pack densely into a cube shape, meaning more product can be shipped per pallet.

(Graphic courtesy of NNZ Inc.)

CKF Inc. brings decades of expertise in molded fiber packaging solutions to the partnership. Its contribution will enable a fiber-based Q-Bic tray with strong end-of-life circularity.

Stackpack/Halopack specializes in paperboard packaging with barrier functionality, offering an alternative to plastic trays while ensuring food safety and shelf life as part of the partnership.

The program also provides NNZ with a seasoned industry mentor, Tony Freytag, founder of Crunch Pak, the company that pioneered sliced apple snacks in North America. Freytag’s entrepreneurial insights and deep industry knowledge will guide NNZ as it brings Q-Bic to market in the U.S. produce sector, the company says.

“Tony’s experience in building a category from the ground up is invaluable,” says Steve Greenfield, director of sales and marketing for NNZ. “His mentorship will help ensure Q-Bic succeeds in both sustainability and market adoption.”

According to the company, the partnership was made possible through a grant awarded by the International Fresh Produce Association, the USDA and the Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research, which supports and accelerates innovation in sustainable packaging for the fresh produce industry.