Thermoforming packaging specialist Waddington Europe has introduced mono-material soft-fruit punnets to the UK market, offering a more sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solution compared to conventional punnets. These punnets are designed to be easier to recycle and use less plastic.
The punnets can be produced using up to 100% recycled PET (rPET), and they are fully recyclable back into food-grade rPET. Made with Waddington Europe’s MONOAIR cushion technology, these new punnets are available in various versions, including large rectangular (WE80), square (WE62), and standard rectangular (WE37) options.
Traditional soft-fruit punnet bases have typically been made of rigid clear PET plastic to showcase the attractive fruits inside. However, these conventional bases require an additional layer of bubble padding that is attached with glue adhesive to protect the soft fruits during transit. Unfortunately, if consumers do not remove the bubble padding and adhesive, the punnet cannot be recycled and must be sent to landfill or incinerated.
Eduardo Gomes, managing director of Waddington Europe, expressed pride in being the first company to supply a wide selection of soft-fruit punnets that are significantly easier to recycle. He highlighted the benefits of the MONOAIR technology, stating that their punnets no longer require extra bubble padding, reducing plastic content and facilitating recycling. Consumers can conveniently place the punnet into their recycling bin without the hassle of separating the padding. This simplifies life for consumers while increasing the number of punnets that can be recycled.
Overall, Waddington Europe’s mono-material soft-fruit punnets provide a sustainable packaging solution that is both environmentally friendly and easy to recycle. By eliminating the need for additional padding, these punnets reduce plastic waste and contribute to a more circular economy.