AR Packaging has announced its TrayLite solution intended for the modified atmosphere packaging of ready meals and other chilled foods, offering an alternative to full plastic barrier trays that apparently reduces plastics by 85%.
The group says that the solution is aimed at meeting demand from brands to replace plastics in packaging, while also ensuring that food waste does not increase. The TrayLite alternative is geared towards high barrier protection applications where plastic trays are currently utilised, including chilled ready meals, processed meat, and fresh fish.
According to AR Packaging, TrayLite is a fibre-based tray concept made from sustainably sourced cartonboard that is lined and sealed with thin, high barrier mono films to ensure extended shelf-life. It adds that the inner liner is recyclable as mono PE material, which includes the ultrathin barrier layer that provides the “crucial” product protection properties.
The cartonboard tray, liner, and lidding film are all reportedly easy for the consumer to separate from each other, as the TrayLite concept does not use glue or adhesives. Once separated, the company says each section of the TrayLite solution can be placed into recycling streams across Europe.
In addition, the patented design of the tray apparently means that the thickness of the cartonboard can be tailored to the exact needs of AR Packaging’s customers, using fewer resources while maintain a tight seal integrity. The company also offers full surface print possibilities on the inside and outside of the tray, allowing for brands to modify consumer communication.
Yoann Bouvet, global sales director of food service at AR Packaging, comments: “We are excited to offer a new improved paper tray and support the development towards more circular packaging solutions.
“Designed for recycling and easy to handle, heat and eat from, TrayLite is ideal for a wide range of products such as ready meals, chilled meat and fish, and nutritional food. Being lightweight and using 85% less plastic, it is a sustainable alternative to the conventional plastic trays.”
Harald Schulz, CEO at AR Packaging, adds that the TrayLite concept is part of the company’s ongoing development of sustainable and innovative packaging solutions for its customers: “The launch of TrayLite confirms this commitment and is one more addition to our wide range of creative innovations provided by our multi-category packaging group.”
Earlier this year, AR Packaging launched EcoFlex, a recyclable mono-polyethylene film for thermoforming applications, Like Traylite, the Ecoflex film can be used to package meat and dairy, as well as bakery products.
