Graphic Packaging investment in plastic tray alternative

PaperSeal tray machinery will be installed in company and partner locations in Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Greece and Australia as part of expansion plans to deliver ‘ready-to-go’ trays to new customers.

Paul Tye, business development director at Graphic Packaging, said sales of PaperSeal trays had grown significantly in 2020 as demand grew for sustainable, recyclable and reusable packaging substrates. Demand was especially growing for those which were made from renewable resources – to reduce environmental impact, he said.

Reducing plastic ​

“PaperSeal tray can help meet those targets by reducing the amount of plastic required to help preserve and best present food,” ​he added. “It provides long-lasting freshness due to its consistent seal integrity, helping to reduce food waste. In addition, the consumer can easily separate the film liner from the paperboard, aiding recyclability post-use.”​

Barrier lined PaperSeal trays are made from cartonboard to help reduce the use of plastic packaging for fresh and processed protein and produce – such as meat and fish, cheese, salad and fruits.

“We’re delighted to see many major retailers adopt our PaperSeal tray,” ​continued Tye. “Reducing environmental impact is one of our top priorities at Graphic Packaging. ​

‘No change overnight’​

“However, change doesn’t happen overnight. We’re committed to supporting our customers in their journey towards a sustainable future and a circular economy.”​

In January, Graphic Packaging announced that its PaperSeal trays would be used on a new premium steak range sold by discount retailer Lidl in the Irish market.

Working with Liffey Meats, Graphic Packaging will supply two million PaperSeal tray units annually. This includes supplying a fully lined, cut and glued PaperSeal tray – an alternative to Vacuum Skin Packaging. Lidl is the first retailer to use the packaging in Ireland.