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Views on Produce Packaging

Kingsville, Ont.-based Red Sun Farms is the largest fully integrated high-tech greenhouse company in North America. Director of Marketing and Packaging Leona Neill discusses the firm’s use of more sustainable packaging, including molded fiber.

First Person Red Sun Farms

Packaging World:
What place in the packaging universe does molded fiber occupy?

Leona Neill:
The produce world has largely transitioned to plastic punnets because they offer increased visibility and good ventilation. But in recent years molded fiber technologies have improved. We’re seeing smooth surfaces, ventilation, and designs that are compatible with heat-sealed lidding materials. Our consumers appreciate that our 10-oz organic grape tomatoes are sold in a molded fiber package that is sourced within Canada, a package that can be recycled or become part of the backyard compost. We believe that fresh produce and environmentally friendly packaging are a winning combination.

What has been the response to the molded fiber punnet?
Because it reduces plastic use by over 90 percent, this package captured an innovation award in Berlin in 2019 and is quickly achieving success across the globe. To date it has eliminated the equivalent of 7.5 million units of plastic of this variety.

Is your use of molded fiber expanding?
Our Organic Grape business continues to grow year over year. Additionally, we are always working with our molded fiber partners at CKF on new designs and formats for the organic market. Our organization recognizes the benefits of this technology and the connection that consumers who are drawn to organics have made with the eco-benefits of molded fiber.

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