A host of retailers and processors see innovation as the prevailing driver of packaging format changes in the future, says one veteran industry source. Echoing sentiments he heard expressed during a recent retailer webinar, “Many influential retailers are looking for new and unique differentiation in their packaging formats. Some see packaging innovation as the new sustainability.”
He puts forth thermoformed trays as one format that already fits the bill for proteins. Although pre-made trays still hold a lion’s share of the market, he sees thermoformed trays “growing and growing,” especially applications displaying meats in a shallow draw semi-rigid or rigid bottom web with a vacuum skin top web. It’s even springing up in the fresh poultry space with marinated breasts and parts.