Constantia FFP has a rich history of introducing innovative and new flexible packaging solutions to the market, particularly in the realm of sustainable packaging. They have developed a reputation for bringing recyclable packaging options that can be easily incorporated into existing collection systems. This commitment to sustainability has gained them recognition and has led to collaborations with reputable brands like Sykes Seafood.
Sykes Seafood, a leading frozen seafood supplier in the UK, approached Constantia FFP to discuss a new product range they were developing with Aldi UK. The goal was to provide consumers with a convenient and healthy choice of meal options. Constantia FFP, as a packaging converter, was thrilled to suggest an exciting new recyclable product that would be a first-of-its-kind in the market.
Recognizing the importance of busy schedules in consumers’ meal choices, Aldi UK and Sykes Seafood aimed to develop a range of frozen ‘Ready to Cook’ meal solutions that were both quick and easy to prepare, while remaining flavorful and healthy. The outcome was a range of three delectable ‘Steam and Serve’ seafood and sauce options that could be microwaved from frozen and ready in under 5 minutes.
For Sykes Seafood, finding a high-temperature packaging solution that could withstand the demands of going from the freezer to the microwave was crucial. Equally important was ensuring the packaging was recyclable, in alignment with Aldi UK’s commitment to reusable, recyclable, or home compostable own label packaging.
Constantia FFP proposed ‘PP-Steam,’ an all PP (polypropylene) mono material laminate that checked all the boxes. Not only did the material meet the functional demands of the product and allow for microwaving from frozen, but it was also recyclable and provided exceptional consumer convenience.
In response to the proposal, Constantia FFP supplied Sykes Seafood with printed pre-made pouches of PP-Steam produced at their Northamptonshire facility. These pouches offered outstanding consumer convenience as they eliminated the need for tearing or piercing prior to microwaving. The packs could simply be placed directly from the freezer into the microwave, thanks to the unique valve technology applied by Constantia FFP. This valve peeled back under heat and pressure in the microwave, releasing steam and allowing for a controlled cooking process. Moreover, the valve shrank linearly when heated, preventing re-sealing and eliminating the risk of the pack imploding during cooling. The result was a convenient, moist, and perfectly cooked meal without any hassle.
“Bringing a new product range to market is very exciting but also has its challenges. When it came to the packaging, we knew what we wanted to achieve in terms of functionality and recyclability and took this to Constantia FFP who presented us with a solution that met all of our criteria,” commented David Williams, Senior Buyer at Sykes Seafood. He further added, “we worked very closely with Constantia FFP throughout the process and are delighted with the finished results. The products are now being very well received in Aldi stores across the UK and are offering customers a choice of incredibly convenient and easy-to-cook healthy meal options.”
PP-Steam, Constantia FFP’s sustainable innovation, was developed in close collaboration with Sykes Seafood. The goal was to introduce a market-first sustainable product to supermarket shelves, aligning with Aldi UK’s sustainability objectives while meeting the needs of their customers. PP-Steam is available as reel-fed material and as pre-made pouches or bags. Constantia FFP applies the valve to the material during the production process, ensuring it runs smoothly on existing packaging lines without requiring costly modifications.
The ‘Steam & Serve’ range offers three delicious recipes: ‘King Prawns in Creamy Pesto Sauce,’ ‘Fish with Tomato, Oregano & Feta,’ and ‘King Prawns in a Thai Green Curry’.
