LINPAC’s LINslice Packaging, West Yorkshire

LINslice’s absorbent expanded polystyrene (EPS) base is used to pack sliced meat and fish. Image courtesy of LINPAC Packaging.

LINslice replaces carton board and laminated paper packaging. Image courtesy of LINPAC Packaging.

LINslice is offered in a range of colours to attract customers at retail stores. Image courtesy of LINPAC Packaging.

European multi-material packaging manufacturer LINPAC Packaging has designed a unique packaging solution known as LINslice, for use in vacuum bagging applications. The new packaging solution is an absorbent expanded polystyrene (EPS) base primarily suitable for food products, such as sliced smoked salmon and pre-cooked meats.

LINslice reduces food spoilage and wastage in stores, while increasing shelf life by a couple of days.

LINslice details

Various studies show that consumers are let down by the appearance and packaging of fish and meat products in retail stores. They are prepared to pay a little more for the premium sliced meat and fish that look fresh and appetising.

LINslice packaging uses an absorbent EPS base that is suitable for these products as it absorbs free flowing juices into the core of the substrate, making it absolutely leak-proof. Micro-perforations created within the base absorb the odious juices that may contain bacteria and can lead to decomposition of the fish and meat.

Juices are locked within the packaging, thus retaining rigidity in moist and chilled environments.

Packaging benefits

LINslice serves as an alternative to carton board and laminated paper packaging, by offering a stable base for packaging sliced products under all moisture and temperature conditions. The food-grade packaging is environmentally friendly and available in a variety of colours to increase visibility and enhance consumer appeal.

LINPAC’s new packaging solution is suitable for use with both horizontal form fill seal (HFFS) and vacuum bagging applications. A wide variety of pre-made bags and Linpac’s LINvac reels are offered to consumers for a full proof sealed packaging.

Sustainability features

Materials used for LINslice are manufactured using high temperatures, which enhances the anti-bacterial properties of the packs and therefore the shelf life. The pack is made of virgin materials as per standards set by the European Union and has a mono-polystyrene structure. The structure is food-safe and does not need a functional barrier for food safety as found in metallic laminated cardboard substrates. This also makes the food cases 100% recyclable.

LINslice packs contain 95% air, making them two-and-a-half times lighter as compared with metallic coated boards. The robust structure of LINslice prevents fish and meat from sliding during production and transportation.

Marketing commentary

Headquartered in Featherstone, West Yorkshire, UK, LINPAC Packaging provides plastic packaging to the protein, fruit and produce, bakery and food service sectors through a network of 26 sales offices and 16 factories in Europe.

LINPAC offers fresh food packaging that ensures high standards of hygiene and low levels of food wastage.