How to Choose MAP Tray for Fruit?

PaperSeal™ Original Tray

An alternative to traditional modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) trays, the PaperSeal™ Original tray packaging solution is ideal for fresh and processed meat and fish applications, salads, fruit, pasta, and more.  

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PaperSeal Original delivers a reduction in plastic of 80 – 90 percent compared to a traditional tray while delivering equivalent performance.  

The tray offers differentiation on the retail shelf thanks to the high-quality offset graphics that can be printed on both the inside and outside.

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PaperSeal Original Tray Benefits

Sustainability

• The PaperSeal Original tray delivers a plastic reduction of 80-90% compared to a traditional thermoformed tray     
• The liner can be easily separated from the paperboard tray after use, enabling easy recycling of the tray
• The paperboard is made from renewable wood-based fiber sourced from sustainably managed forests 
• Trays can be supplied formed or flat, the latter resulting in lower transport emissions compared to formed plastic trays as more can be shipped per delivery

Consumer Experience

• The unique, reinforced, continuous sealing flange ensures seal integrity equal to traditional plastic trays 
• The hermetically sealed tray provides a shelf life equivalent to traditional trays 
• High-quality offset graphics deliver great on-shelf impact  

Operational Efficiency

• Our range of paperboards, liners, and films offers solutions for a wide range of applications including fresh and processed meat and fish, ready-to-eat foods, pasta, salad, fruit, and more 
• Trays can be supplied formed or flat, the latter resulting in lower transport and storage costs compared to pre-made trays 
• Can be produced at depths up to 60mm 

Brand and Marketing

• The pack offers flexibility on branding formats with high-quality, offset graphics on both the internal and external surface, delivering on-shelf differentiation

PaperSeal Original Tray Applications

Fresh and Processed Meats

Chilled Foods

Sliced Meats and Cheeses

Prepared Salads

Ready-to-Eat Meals

New Seasons Market Reduces Single-Use Plastic in Fresh Pasta Packaging

Grocery retailer New Seasons Market reduces plastic by 91 percent by switching to the PaperSeal barrier-lined tray.

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PaperSeal™ Skin Tray

The PaperSeal™ Skin tray is a paperboard alternative to traditional plastic vacuum skin packaging (VSP) trays for fresh and processed protein applications, delivering a reduction in plastic of 80 – 90 percent. 

PaperSeal™ Wedge Tray

Our innovative PaperSeal™ Wedge tray is ideal for sliced meats and cheeses. It is a barrier-lined paperboard alternative to thermoformed plastic trays alternative. 

PaperSeal™ Cook Tray

PaperSeal™ Cook is a paperboard tray for oven and microwave-ready chilled and frozen food applications. 

PaperSeal™ Shape Tray

The PaperSeal™ Shape tray is the latest addition to the multi-award-winning PaperSeal paperboard tray portfolio. Offering round, deep and multicompartment options, it’s ideal for fresh, prepared fruit and salads, dips, and chilled ready-to-eat foods where a modified atmosphere is required to maintain shelf life. 

PLA fruit trays are sustainable packaging solutions specifically designed for fruits. PLA, or polylactic acid, is a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable resources like corn starch. Unlike traditional plastic trays that can take hundreds of years to decompose, PLA fruit trays break down naturally within months when exposed to the right composting conditions. They offer a rigid and transparent packaging option to display and protect fruits while minimizing environmental impact. As the demand for eco-friendly products grows, PLA fruit trays provide a promising alternative for retailers and consumers who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

These trays not only help in reducing the plastic waste that ends up in landand fills but also support a circular economy where materials are reused and recycled. PLA fruit trays are lightweight, and resilient, making them ideal for transporting fruits without the risk of damage. Moreover, they offer a fresh and natural look, enhancing the visual appeal of the produce. With innovations in biodegradable packaging, PLA fruit trays are poised to become the go-to choice for those seeking to marry functionality with environmental responsibility.

Types of PLA fruit trays

PLA fruit trays come in a variety of types, each catering to different needs and preferences while promoting sustainability. Some common kinds of PLA fruit trays include:

• Standard trays

  These are the typical trays used for packaging fruits. They come in different sizes and shapes to hold various kinds of fruits ranging from apples, oranges, berries, and grapes. Standard trays are designed to stack easily, making them ideal for display in stores and transport.

• Clamshell trays

  These trays have a hinged lid that opens and closes like a shell. Clamshell trays provide an excellent view of the fruit while offering good protection. They are commonly used for berries, cherries, and other small fruits.

• Biodegradable trays

  As the name suggests, this type of tray can be broken down by microorganisms, thus reducing environmental impact. These trays are made from organic materials that decompose naturally, providing an eco-friendly packaging option for fruits. They are designed for composting facilities where these materials can be processed.

• Custom-shaped trays

  Some fruits may require specially-designed trays to ensure they are well-protected and have minimal movement inside the packaging. Custom-shaped trays can be made in different forms to accommodate such needs.

• Large bulk bins

  These are bigger containers used for transporting and storing large quantities of fruits in PLA trays. They are not typically sold on supermarket shelves but are used by suppliers to distribute produce to retailers.

• Tray with lids

  These trays come with detachable lids for added protection. The lids can be sealed to provide a tamper-proof packaging option that helps maintain the freshness of the fruit until it reaches the consumer.

Design of PLA fruit trays

The fruit trays made from PLA have design characteristics that make them practical and visually appealing for presenting fruits.

• Clear and Attractive Packaging:

  The trays may be designed with clarity to show the fruits clearly to the consumers. They could have a smooth and glossy finish that makes the fruits look more appealing. The trays could have bright and shiny surfaces that make them stand out on store shelves. This could be achieved by using special coatings or treatments during manufacturing. The trays might also have rounded edges and gentle curves to give them a soft and inviting appearance.

• Shape and Size Options:

  The trays could be shaped and sized to fit different kinds of fruits. For delicate berries, smaller and shallower trays could be used. For larger apples or oranges, bigger and deeper trays could be used. This ensures that the fruits fit well within the trays without being overcrowded. The trays might also have raised sections or compartments to keep the fruits separated and stable.

• Ventilation and Airflow:

  The trays could have holes or perforations that allow fresh air to reach the fruits. This ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to mold growth or spoilage. The trays are carefully designed to promote proper airflow, keeping the fruits fresher for a longer time. The holes or perforations are strategically placed to ensure even air circulation throughout the tray.

• Protection and Stability:

  The trays might have raised edges or borders that protect the fruits from rolling off or getting damaged. The sides are sturdy enough to withstand handling and transportation. Some trays may have additional features, such as interlocking mechanisms or snap-fit designs, which keep them stable when stacked or during movement.

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• Environmentally Friendly:

  Trays made from PLA are more eco-friendly than plastic ones. PLA is a plant-based material that breaks down in composting facilities. It is better for the environment. Using PLA to make trays is a way to reduce the amount of plastic that can harm animals and nature. It helps protect our planet. Choosing trays that come from renewable resources shows a commitment to caring for the environment. Businesses and consumers can feel good about using trays that have less impact on the earth.

Scenarios of PLA fruit trays

• Retail and Grocery Stores:

  PLA fruit trays are ideal for retail and grocery stores. They are used to display fresh fruits and berries. The clear and sturdy design of the trays can attract customers and ensure that the fruits are well protected and easily accessible. For example, PLA fruit trays are used to display apples, oranges, berries, and strawberries in grocery stores. They provide a convenient way for customers to select and purchase their desired fruits.

• Catering and Events:

  PLA fruit trays are also popular in catering and event settings. They are used to present fruit platters at weddings, parties, and corporate events. The elegant design of the trays adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation of the food. For example, a wedding reception may use PLA fruit trays to display a variety of fresh fruits, creating a visually appealing and healthy food option for the guests.

• Food Service and Restaurants:

  In restaurants and food service establishments, PLA fruit trays are commonly used in salad bars, buffet stations, and fruit garnishes. They provide a clean and organized way to present the fruits, making it easy for customers to serve themselves. For example, a salad bar in a restaurant may use PLA fruit trays to display a variety of fresh fruits, allowing customers to make their salads with the toppings they want.

• Home Use:

  PLA fruit trays are also suitable for home use. People can use them to store and organize fruits in their kitchens or dining areas. The environmentally friendly material of the trays makes them a good choice for home use. For example, a family can use PLA fruit trays to keep oranges, apples, and bananas in the kitchen, keeping the kitchen clean and organized.

• Gift Baskets and Food Packaging:

  PLA fruit trays are often used in gift baskets and specialized food packaging. They provide protection and an attractive presentation for the fruits. For example, a gift basket may include a variety of fresh fruits, and the PLA fruit tray will ensure that the fruits are well protected during delivery and have an appealing display for the recipient.

How to choose a PLA fruit tray

• Material Safety:

  PLA fruit trays are made from plant starch, which is a bioplastic. When choosing fruit trays, it is important to check if they are food safe. This means they can safely hold and store fruits without contaminating them. Manufacturers should meet food safety standards, which involve testing the material. For business buyers, ensuring the trays come with certifications showing they passed tests for being safe around food is key. Trays labeled as food safe have not harmful chemicals that could transfer to the fruits and pose health risks to consumers.

• Sustainability and biodegradability:

  PLA fruit trays are known for being compostable and breaking down naturally. When selecting fruit trays, look for ones that meet composting and biodegradability criteria. This means they can properly decompose in composting facilities instead with the help of micro-organisms, rather than persisting in landfills. Trays should have certifications for compostability from organizations that verify products can compost as certified. For business buyers, choosing trays that can return to nature through composting rather than harming the environment from landfills is important for sustainability.

• Performance and durability:

  Even though PLA is environmentally friendly, it can still be robust. When picking fruit trays, business buyers should evaluate how well they hold up under use. This means considering factors like strength, resistance to crushing, and lastingness. The trays should withstand being moved and not easily break or get damaged. Trays should offer good value by performing reliably for their purpose. While compostability and safety are key, the trays also need to function effectively for storing and transporting fruits to meet business needs.

• Compatibility with existing systems:

  For business buyers, it is key to think about how PLA fruit trays will work with their current operations. When selecting trays, buyers should consider whether the trays will fit their storage, display, and shipping needs. The compatibility means how well the trays will integrate into the buyer's workflow. Trays should seamlessly match the systems for storing and moving fruits to be cost-effective. Business buyers need to ensure the trays work within their processes to avoid extra expenses from not fitting. Considering how the trays will perform in real-world use is important for bulk buyers.

• Cost considerations:

  While PLA fruit trays offer environmental benefits, business buyers should also assess their costs. When selecting trays, buyers need to evaluate their price compared to traditional options. Trays should provide a balance of affordability and sustainable features. For bulk orders, ensuring the cost aligns with the benefits is key. Business buyers should consider the total expenses over the life cycle to make cost-effective choices. While protecting nature is important, buyers also need to keep an eye on the bottom line.

Q&A

Q1. Are PLA fruit trays suitable for outdoor events?

A1. PLA fruit trays can be used outdoors, but users should consider the temperature and humidity conditions. Avoid exposing the trays to high temperatures.

Q2. Can PLA fruit trays be used in the microwave or oven?

A2. PLA fruit trays are not suitable for microwaves or ovens, as they may melt or deform due to heat. They are designed for serving and storing food at room temperature or refrigerated.

Q3. How can businesses ensure the quality of PLA fruit trays when purchasing from Alibaba?

A3. To ensure quality, businesses can request product samples, check the supplier's certifications, and read reviews from other customers on Alibaba.com.

Q4. Are PLA fruit trays compatible with existing packaging systems?

A4. Businesses should assess the compatibility of PLA trays with their packaging lines concerning packing, sealing, and labeling processes to ensure a smooth workflow.

Q5. What are the storage requirements for PLA fruit trays?

A5. PLA fruit trays should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their integrity and prevent deformation.

For more MAP Tray for Fruit(it,hi,vi)information, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.