Award-winning Earthcycle™ plastic free packaging extends product line to protein
By CKF Inc.
GeneralHANTSPORT, NS (July 7th, 2020) – Responding to industry and consumer demands for less plastic packaging, CKF Inc., worked with key retailers to develop an Earthcycle solution for meat and seafood. Still a thermoformed moulded pulp tray, the new Ultra White Earthcycle trays are made from 100% virgin fibre, giving them an eye-popping white, which strikingly highlights the final packaged meat or seafood item.
In working with a large north eastern grocery chain, the trays were tested for performance and appearance. For protein applications packed at site, the Earthcycle Ultra White trays met the 5 day shelf life requirement. The new Earthcycle trays, in addition to being a different colour to the original Earthcycle, are also heavier, which makes them up to 20% stronger. Available in industry standard sizes, the trays can easily be incorporated into a retail offering, especially for organic meats and Ocean-wise® offerings.
“It is a balancing act” says Brad Dennis, Vice President of Sales and Marketing when commenting on the structure of the new Ultra White Earthcycle trays. “Adding coatings or laminates to our Earthcycle offering detracts from the superior end of life value proposition of our material. We chose to go to market with a clean, mono-layer material that offers the consumer an easy recycling alternative in the paper stream. The new protein Earthcycle trays are best used in conjunction with a soaker pad and ideally used for in-store packing”.
The Earthcycle Ultra White trays are in the process of being certified home compostable by AB Vincotte, but until then, they are considered widely recyclable in waste paper streams. Made from sustainably sourced North America pulp, the trays add to Earthcycle’s already extensive product line of trays and punnets for the fresh produce sector.
About CKF Inc.
CKF Inc. is a diversified Canadian-owned manufacturer that proudly offers a wide range of moulded pulp, foam, and rPET products to meet the specific demands of retail consumers, food service operators and the packaging industry. CKF is part of the Scotia Investments Group of Companies.
R.A. Jodrey established Canadian Keyes Fibre Company Limited in the summer of 1933, during the worst of the Great Depression years. The Company began with a single plant in Hantsport, NS – manufacturing pie plates and cake circles for bakeries. CKF has experienced uninterrupted growth since its establishment and now operates 5 plants across the country – Hantsport, Rexdale, two in Langley, and Delta – employing over 700 people. Nationally recognized brand Royal Chinet® is one of CKF’s best known products and stands as a symbol for many Canadians of family, friends and joyous occasions.
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