Viridiflex film extends shelf-life of potatoes

By Jenny EAGLE

- Last updated on GMT

Asda is the first UK retailer to use Viridiflex films for potatoes
Asda is the first UK retailer to use Viridiflex films for potatoes

Related tags Fresh produce Supermarket

Ultimate Packaging and QV Foods has created a film from renewable raw materials drawing moisture away from fresh produce to prevent decay.

Viridiflex, which is available to buy now, is transparent, glossy and strong and can be formed into bags or used as lidding film to extend the shelf-life of potatoes, parsnips, sprouts and soft fruits.

Chris Tonge, sales and marketing director, Ultimate Packaging, said UK supermarket, Asda is the first retailer to launch Viridiflex packed potatoes.

Reduces 'greening'

The Viridiflex potato film is modified using its Adapt MAP laser technology, which can increase gas transmission and manage oxygen levels, changing the atmosphere in a pack to reduce the risk of ‘greening.’

“Over 70% of our products are used by the fresh food and chilled market sector so we decided to take a major technical leap forward making advancements in our film technology,” ​said Tonge.

Asda plans to sell the product with its Extra Special Cornish Crystal Potatoes.

Battle to reduce waste

Jon Wynn, produce category technical manager, ASDA, said customers will benefit from an increase in product life and end of life quality compared to other conventional packs, with Viridiflex packed potatoes.

He added extending the life of fresh produce during transportation, storage and on-shelf is becoming increasingly important in the battle to reduce waste.

Using Natureflex film, manufactured by Innovia Films, as a component, it prevents dehydration on one side and mould growth on the other. It can be used for up to 1.5kg of produce.

Viridiflex is a laminate structure designed by Ultimate’s technical team, working with Innovia Films and customers in the harvest and packing of fresh produce to supply retailers across Britain​,” he said.

Related topics Processing & Packaging

Related news

Show more

2 comments

Reply to Sandeep

Posted by Lauren@Viridiflex,

The film actively removes moisture, holding some in the film and transpiring excess away. Laser perforations can be added to the film to allow gases to pass through, the atmosphere in the pack is not altered by gas flushing at the time of packing.

Report abuse

shelf life extension

Posted by Sandeep Goyal,

is it depended on the surrounding atmosphere or its the universal film that can be used to extend potato shelf life?

Report abuse

Follow us

Products

View more

Webinars