Mondi’s collaboration with BIOhof Kirchweidach, an organic farm in Bavaria, has resulted in a new paper-based packaging solution for its 500g packs of tomatoes.
The new solution, Coral Tray, is set to be distributed by PENNY supermarkets, which is owned by major German retailer REWE Group.
Coral Tray fulfils BIOhof’s objective of replacing its previous packaging, which used 2.5 g of plastic film per pack, with a recyclable and plastic-free solution, supporting REWE Group’s sustainability goals.
According to Mondi, its new product is fully recyclable and made of renewable material and recycled corrugated board, which reportedly has an average recycling rate of over 80% in Europe.
Packaging experts at Mondi Grünburg in Austria worked with BIOhof’s team to design the one-piece corrugated tray with an integrated lid made of lightweight F-Flute. Both the fluting and outer liner are made of 100% recycled material and the KraftTop inner liner ensures it meets food contact requirements.
The solution can also be mechanised for up to six different package sizes and gives BIOhof the option of using it for other small organic produce.
Jan Blankiewicz, product innovation manager at Mondi Corrugated Solutions, commented: “At Mondi we are committed to being sustainable by design and were delighted to work with BIOhof to help expand their portfolio of sustainable packaged products. The Coral Tray offers great shelf appeal.
“Mondi’s expertise ensured the perfect balance was struck between the consumer having a good view of the product inside, tray stability for stacking during transport, and perfect stiffness for mechanisation.”
Florian Steiner, managing director of BIOhof Kirchweidach, added: “Due to the stability of the packaging, the product is extremely well protected against damage. It also eliminates the risk of the tomatoes being bruised in the shopping basket or on the way home with consumers.
“The goods breathe through the air holes, which reduces the risk of mold forming. Likewise, condensation cannot form, which often happens with plastic packaging.”
