StePac L.A. Ltd., a global leader in innovative packaging solutions, has unveiled a greener packaging technology specifically designed to enhance the storage and transport of broccoli. This new solution focuses on reducing waste and improving sustainability by moving away from traditional ice-based methods and adopting advanced Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) technology.

The company’s latest offering, part of the Xtend® packaging line, ensures that broccoli maintains its freshness and nutritional quality for extended periods during long-distance transportation. This packaging works by carefully controlling the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and humidity within the package, thereby slowing down respiration rates and minimizing spoilage.

One of the standout features of this new technology is its environmental impact. Traditional methods of transporting broccoli often rely on ice and wax-coated cartons, both of which have significant downsides. Ice contributes to excess weight and water waste, while wax cartons are typically non-recyclable. StePac’s innovation eliminates the need for these elements, offering fully recyclable packaging that significantly reduces waste and improves shipping efficiency.

By using the Xtend® packaging, producers can achieve higher packing densities, as ice is no longer required. This increases the amount of produce that can be shipped in a single container, reducing transportation costs and lowering the carbon footprint. For example, replacing ice-packed shipments with StePac’s solution can reduce the overall weight of a shipment by up to 30%, enabling more efficient logistics and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionally, the technology has been proven to improve food safety. Ice-packed broccoli often faces risks of contamination due to water pooling, which can harbor harmful bacteria. The Xtend® packaging eliminates these risks by maintaining a dry environment, ensuring that the product reaches consumers in optimal condition.

StePac’s focus on sustainability aligns with growing consumer and industry demands for eco-friendly solutions. By addressing critical issues such as waste, carbon emissions, and food safety, the company’s packaging technology offers a forward-thinking approach to fresh produce transportation. This innovation is expected to set a new standard in the packaging industry, paving the way for broader adoption of sustainable practices across the fresh produce sector.