If you want to test new packaging concepts, evaluate the latest in packaging technology or determine what new consumer packaging ideas are likely to be flowing through the American manufacturing-to-consumption pipeline in the next year or so, go West now.
The Econoline MGC-E case packer from Blueprint Automation (Richmond, VA) packs 1-oz to 10-lb bags into cases at speeds to 90/min. Designed for short production runs, changeovers take only two min.
When Buffalo, NY-based food producer Rich Products decided to downsize its cinnamon raisin biscuits from a foodservice to a retail package, it faced two key challenges.
State governors would be able to restrict the import of out-of-state garbage under a bill passed by the Senate and under consideration in the House. Until now, the courts have considered garbage to be interstate commerce that only Congress can regulate.
WeighPack Systems (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) offers machines for efficient and accurate bagging of fresh, processed or frozen foods from less than 1/2 oz to 50 lb into a variety of bags, cartons, jars or trays.
Green-Tek (Edgerton, WI) has developed dual-ovenable, micro-waveable and freezer compatible trays made of CPET. These thermally stable trays can withstand 40° to 400°F and are available in black or white.
The four primary goals of packaging-product protection, identification, dispensing and merchandising-won't change in the 21st century. But as we near that milestone, the market forces that more subtly affect packaging are evolving.
Chiquita tests SiOx-coated board and a brand new gabletop carton size. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola Foods says goodbye to Minute Maid's basic black, redesigns Hi-C and launches a novel 7.7-oz aluminum can.
Ilapak's (Newtown, PA) Cougar(TM)LS flowrapper now has a lap seal feature for use on shrink, PE and other films. Uses a rotary hot knife to form end seals, eliminating hot wires and producing attractive bead seals.