The importance of packaging automation in the fresh produce business is expected to increase. Here is why. Online retail for fresh fruit and vegetables and fresh produce in general is anticipated to grow significantly over the coming years. Packaging is a critical element in collecting, transporting, storing and protecting fresh produce from harmful influences. Moreover, packaging plays a key role in extending shelf-life of fresh produce and minimizing food waste.
Importance of fresh produce packaging for online retail
Some online retailers plan to supply bulk produce without individual packaging. However, industry experts expect to see more packaging of individual units. This will enable online sales channels to ensure transport space is used efficiently, thus reducing shipping costs.
Firstly, packaging needs to be leak-proof for convenience and hygiene purposes. Secondly, produce packaging should protect against contamination. This allows fresh produce to be transported safely, together with other consumer goods, in the same shipment. In this environment, fresh fruit and vegetable packaging will increasingly be expected to support eco-sustainability. This includes extending shelf life, using less packaging and more environmentally-responsible materials.
Produce packaging automation solutions
In order to stay ahead of the curve and meet the new requirements of the market, fresh produce packers are looking to expand their packaging capabilities and implement automation where possible.
OSSID 500Si high-speed stretch wrapper is a cost-effective overwrapper solution for packaging produce products. OSSID’s innovative gripper chain technology ensures packages are tightly wrapped at speeds up to 120 trays per minute. Furthermore, 500Si’s durable stainless-steel construction and advanced features make it easier to operate, more productive, more versatile and easier to maintain than other overwrapping machines. Moreover, it uses less film and is capable of running PVC stretch film, so you have more film options and achieve film savings.
With product changeover in less than 2 minutes, your packaging productivity will be maximized. Servo-driven technology further reduces downtime and maintenance. As a result, your machine is running at its top performance for consistent throughput. Plus, you have peace of mind knowing that PACKPRO field service technicians are only a call away to assist you with installation, training, trouble-shooting and maintenance.
Concerned about space and utilities required for operating the machine? You don’t have to be with OSSID 500Si. It does not require air or water to operate and is ideal for space-constrained environments.
In conclusion
Online sales of fresh produce are anticipated to grow significantly in the near future. As a fresh produce packer, you must consider produce packaging automation now, to break away from the competition and meet the new demands of the market. You can rely on OSSID 500Si high-speed stretch overwrapper to perform above and beyond your highest expectations and take your produce packaging operations to the next level.
