StePacPPC’s advanced modified atmosphere/modified humidity (MA/MH) packaging solutions are transforming the US foodservice sector with proven success in reducing waste and improving operational efficiency.
The visionary food packaging developer together with its partner Windham Packaging Ltd. Inc., USA, is serving the demand for impactful solutions to the widespread issue of food waste in the sector.
The European Food Information Council estimates that some 1.05 billion tons of food waste is generated globally, out of which 60% comes from households and almost 30%—or a distressing 290 million tons—emanates from the foodservice industry.
The foodservice industry is often forced to discard large volumes owing to the perishable nature of fresh produce, supply chain temperature fluctuations, spoilage, and kitchen waste, creating a costly cycle and ethical dilemmas that persist despite improved inventory management measures and donation efforts.
To address these challenges, StePacPPC and its partner Windham Packaging have developed a range of its bulk modified-atmosphere packaging to extend the shelf life of fresh produce headed to foodservice outlets—predominantly restaurants, hotels, and canteens.
These films are already gaining momentum among fresh produce packagers in the US, specifically for the delivery of ready-to-use sliced mushrooms, green beans, Brussels sprouts and broccoli, with demonstrated success in improving operational efficiency and reducing waste.
The lean, resealable MA/MH packaging designed by StePacPPC is inbuilt with water vapour transmission rates (WVTR) to help eliminate excess moisture buildup.
This preserves the quality and appearance of the fresh produce, helping it weather long-haul shipments, extend storage time, and reduce food waste.
Optimised for both horizontal and vertical form-fill and seal (HFFS and VFFS) operations, these lean films minimise plastic consumption with proven improvements in packaging process efficiency. The films are also available with chemically recycled content with accreditation from RedCert2.
StePacPPC’s portfolio of films and packaging formats include its popular branded Xtend bags and Xflow films. They incorporate a patented high-performance sealing layer that seamlessly adapts to both manual and automated packing across a range of produce items, enhancing operational efficiency and potentially reducing labour costs.
StePacPPC formats have been customised to pack vegetables in varying volumes, and according to the needs of the foodservice operations, taking into account each product’s unique needs.
The design considers key factors such as respiration rates, moisture sensitivity, dehydration risk, and required atmospheric conditions, as well as post-harvest handling and supply chain requirements.
This results in packaging that provides optimal moisture control and modified atmosphere conditions for each specific produce type, preserving quality, extending shelf-life and reducing waste.