MODIFIED atmosphere packaging (MAP) can extend the shelf-life of fresh fruit – but can also cause problems with condensation – and Sirane’s absorbent fruit pads could be the answer.
MAP packaging which has been permeated with small holes can help keep fruit fresh, but this success can be negated by a downside – an excess of condensation within the pack which could contribute to problems such as increased levels of mould growth.
Gillian Carter, who heads up our fresh produce sales, said: “Whether you’re looking for absorbent fruit pads, pads with integrated ethylene absorption or anti-fungal properties, or cushioned pads for soft-fruit, Sirane has an extensive range to suit all needs.
“So come and talk to us, tell us the problems you’re experiencing, and we’ll tell you what we can do to help – it might well be a packaging solution we’ve already found, and if not we’re a development company, so would be happy to work with you to solve the issue.
“There’s no point solving one packaging problem, such as creating a pack which allows for the ideal respiration rate, if it simply creates another problem with increased mould.
“We have a range of fruit pads, available in different sizes, different colours, and varying levels of absorbencies, so whatever fruit you are packaging, we have a solution.”
Sirane’s new Dri-fresh Soft-Hold pad – which combines the cushioning and protective properties of bubble films with effective absorbency, high permeability and excellent product presentation – is one such pad which could solve condensation problems.
“Soft fruit is often transported huge distances,” said Gillian Carter, “and so protecting the fruit in the most effective way possible is vital. The more fruit that arrives at its destination in perfect condition, the better it is for everyone involved in the supply chain.
“Sirane can offer the ultimate protection, cushioned protection alongside absorbency – we can even integrate ethylene absorbency and anti-fungal options if required.
“Soft-Hold has been developed with distributors and retailers in mind, with an eye on the needs of the companies involved. Our customers have been telling us they want pads that offer more protection for the packaged fruit that extend shelf-life.
“Soft-hold ticks all the boxes, and the feedback so far has been incredibly positive. It combines everything into one great product, with the cushioned layer offering a final level of protection that no other product on the market has managed.”
Other products in the Sirane fresh produce packaging range include standard Dri-Fresh Fresh-Hold pads, offering absorbency, ethylene absorbency and anti-fungal options if required, and labels which can be hidden in a pack and absorb unwanted ethylene.
Anti-fungal treatment been shown to extend the shelf life of soft fruit beyond that available with current technologies, and the integration of pad and anti-fungal treatment can significantly reduce packaging costs for growers and distributors.
Sirane is a highly innovative packaging product development-to-manufacture company based in Telford, Shropshire. It has four divisions: food packaging; medical and healthcare; industrial and horticultural. Specialisms include absorbency and cooking bags.
Simon Balderson, Sirane MD, said: “We are the absorbency experts, so if you’re having issues with condensation in your fruit packaging, or any other issue where absorbency could be the answer, then give Sirane a call – we’re here to help solve your packaging problems.”
For more information, email [email protected] or call 0044 1952 230055. Gillian will be at the Global Berry Congress in Rotterdam from March 23-25 if anyone wishes to make an appointment to see her there and discuss any of the products Sirane has to offer.
