Microwavable package developed for fish products
to a paperboard base, will give food processors another option for
their ready-to-eat fish products.
MicroRite expands the options for processors with microwave packaging that cooks foods quickly and evenly, while leaving it moist and tender, claims its manufacturer Graphic PackagingInternational.
Ready meals are currently one of the most dynamic sectors in the global packaged food market, registering value growth of nearly four per cent during 2002, according to Datamonitor. While developedUS, UK and Japan markets account for 66 per cent of global sales by value, the emerging markets of eastern Europe are also a source of growth.
Graphic Packaging has supplied the package in Canada for baked pies and in Europe for lasagna. Now the company has developed the package for seafood at the request of US-based Raw Seafoods.
Raw Seafoods asked Graphic Packaging to develop the material for use with its "Cape Cod Cuisine", the company's new line of gourmet-quality seafood products.
"Raw Seafoods Inc. wanted to respond to growing consumer demand for convenience by offering high quality seafood products that can be cooked easily and quickly in a microwave oven with nomess," Graphic Packaging stated. "They wanted a package that would work with the microwave to cook their products thoroughly and quickly, without making the food dry or tough.Historically, these results are only achieved in a conventional oven, which requires lengthy cooking times."
Over a five month period Graphic Packaging developed a deep, dual paperboard tray that cooks the fish evenly, the company claims.
Graphic Packaging hopes to further develop the tray for family-sized entrees such as lasagna and meat casseroles.
