Packaging fresh vegetables and fruits are one of the most important duties in the long and complicated process from producer to client. Bags, crates, hampers, baskets, containers, bulk containers, and packaged containers make handling, distributing, and promoting fresh food simpler. More than 1,500 different types of produce containers are used in the United States, and the figure increases as the industry unveils new packing designs and materials.
Fruit and vegetable packaging equipment accounts for a large portion of production cost; therefore, packers, purchasers, packers, and consumers must know various packaging options available. This fact sheet examines the different types of packaging available and their purposes, applications, and limits. A list of the typical produce boxes used in the industry is also organized by commodity.
What is the purpose of packaging?
Container failure as a result of poor design or inappropriate selection and use can be associated with a substantial percentage of produce purchaser and customer complaints. A well-designed produce packaging should contain, preserve, and identify the product from the grower to the customer.
Points for packaging
Recyclability/Biodegradability
Many of the most ardent supporters of fresh food are also the most concerned about the environment. In a developing number of U.S. markets and many export countries, packaging materials are subjected to waste disposal requirements. Nearly all product packaging will be recyclable, compostable, or both in the not-too-distant future.
Variety
Bulk packaging is growing more popular among manufacturers and wholesale purchasers, while smaller containers are getting more popular among consumers. Packages for fruits and vegetables are currently available in over 1,500 different sizes and forms.
Customers will be drawn to you if you are appealing to them.
The fruit must be contained in containers that may be readily handled and delivered. The product should fit inside the container tightly, with little room for waste. Many agricultural products, such as asparagus, strawberries, and soft fruit, may require specially designed containers. Various packaging sizes can be used to package small spherical or oblong product items (like onions, potatoes, and apples). The maximum number of veggies handled by hand per package is generally 50 pounds. Bulk items weighing up to 1,200 pounds may be transported using forklifts.
Protection
Products containers must be durable enough to withstand damage during storage, packaging, and shipping to market. The package must safeguard the produce from mechanical damage and adverse environmental conditions during handling and transport. To produce buyers, ripped, damaged, or collapsed produce packages frequently signal that the contents were handled carelessly.
Conclusion
Fruit and vegetable packaging equipment should have enough stacking strength to stop crushing in a bit of temperature, a higher humidity environment because practically all produce packages are palletized. Even though the cost of packaging materials has risen dramatically in recent years, packers and buyers no longer accept low-quality, lightweight containers that are quickly destroyed by handling or moisture.
