StePacPPC has released a resealable retail pouch intended to prolong the shelf life of moisture-sensitive produce.
The patent-pending Xgo PAZ Pouch utilises flexible-film technology to regulate internal atmospheric conditions and humidity levels.
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The Xgo Modified Atmosphere (MAP) films combine three separate operations, atmospheric modification, humidity management, and condensation regulation into a single format.
This mechanism is designed to maintain produce firmness, colour, and flavour for up to 16 days across supply chains, retail shelving, and home refrigeration.
In North America, Wholesum Family Farms has deployed 8 oz. Xgo pouches for its “Lil’ Ones Organic Baby Cucumbers” product.
During 16-day trial runs replicating supply chain conditions, the PAZ format registered a 29 percentage-point higher quality outcome for organic baby cucumbers compared with top-sealed containers, noted StePacPPC.
The format is also said to have reported a 10 percentage-point improvement over macro-perforated packaging for organic mini cucumbers.
The packaging is utilised for specialty fruits such as longan, pitaya, lychee, and rambutan to preserve flavour and appearance over extended distribution periods.
Florida-based Freshway Produce uses the format across its exotic fruit range, enabling items to be packed at the harvest source and eliminating the requirement for secondary packing upon arrival in the US.
StePacPPC CTO Gary Ward said: “With traditional laminated pouches, achieving modified atmosphere for shelf-life extension comes at the expense of optimal moisture control.
“Conversely, if you want optimal moisture control, you need to macro-perforate, which is at the expense of modified atmosphere and increases the risk of dehydration. This is the balance fresh produce packagers struggle to reach.
“Xgo PAZ pouch’s three-in-one design successfully overcomes this limitation and offers a comprehensive solution that effectively maintains appearance and quality of the produce, extends the marketability window, and ultimately reduces food waste and costs.”
