Packaging firm Coveris has introduced a new recyclable skinboard tray, which the company says will reduce the use of plastic by more than 50%.
Image: The new recyclable skinboard tray for fresh protein sector. Photo: courtesy of Coveris.
Designed for Morrisons, the new vacuum skinboard (VSB) format aggregates sustainable sourcing, plastics reduction and improved recyclability to deliver a fully-circular pack format supporting both the retailer and packaging manufacturer’s UK Plastics Pact commitments.
The new skinboard tray, which is a new packaging format fresh protein sector, has been developed to replace hard-to-recycle black plastic trays with a printed FSC or PEFC cardboard base.
Coveris’ new packaging format has been produced by using more than 75% renewable materials, enabling to deliver a significantly lower carbon footprint.
The skinboard tray also delivers improved end-of-life, as it combines existing vacuum shrink PE film with new recyclable board.
According to the company, around 80% of the new pack can be widely recycled under OPRL guidelines compared to the previous pack that cannot be recycled due to the multi-layer base material.
The new tray features multi-purpose and fully printed base with an option of up to eight colors HD or conventional flexo, helping to avoid the use of additional printed components such as lidding films and base labels.
Coveris’ pack is also provided with advanced barrier properties and seal integrity, as well as an easy-peel open feature.
The new VSB format is available across Morrisons stores nationwide, and is used for 14 of ‘The Best’ cooked meats such as hams, chicken, turkey, beef and pork.
Coveris has worked with Morrisons’ supply-chain team as part of a six-month development process to develop a new sustainable packaging for the protein category.
Morrisons Manufacturing group packaging manager Chris Elliott said: “at Morrisons we listen hard to our customers. They are asking us to look for ways to reduce packaging. In particular to reduce plastic packaging.”
Coveris’ paper division business development director Rob Court said: “the launch of our new vacuum skinboard innovation marks a major industry breakthrough in the development of products for the fresh protein sector.”