Visy has introduced an automated labelling setup for its Australian-made cardboard Enviropunnet, as retailers look for alternatives to soft plastic in fresh produce packaging.
The Enviropunnet overclose system holds fruit and vegetables in place with folded cardboard flaps and a paper label, removing the need for plastic film or wrapping.
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It is intended for apples, pears, stone fruit and tomatoes.
Visy said the equipment can be installed into existing packing lines, allowing a shift from flow wrapping to labelling without extra conveyors.
The system uses food-safe adhesives and can be configured with sections that avoid adhesive contact with exposed produce.
It also offers optional date coding and custom printing.
The system is available for several pack formats.
These include a 1kg Enviropunnet for apples, pears, stone fruits and tomatoes; a 750g Enviropunnet for pears, stone fruits and tomatoes; and a 500g to 1kg tray pack for premium apples.
Visy group corrugated packaging general manager Chris Van Der Merwe said: “Thanks to our new labelling system, our Enviropunnets can now be plastic film and wrap free, while still protecting fresh fruit and veg. Even better, they’re kerbside recyclable after use so that we can turn them into new cardboard packaging.
“Growers and supermarkets can rely on our secure, local supply chain, with the Enviropunnet produced through our Australian network of operations, using board made in Wodonga and assembled in Shepparton.”
Visy started in 1948 in Shepparton after founder Leon Pratt developed cardboard boxes to replace heavier wooden crates used to move apples.
The business has 7,000 employees across 150 sites and works in recycling and remanufacturing.
