Packaging materials inside boxes and plastic trays
Several materials inside boxes and plastic containers are used to protect the product quality. Plastic film liners or bags are used to provide a better climate around the produce. Other materials, such as dividers between fruits prevents rubbing and movement, thus preventing bruising. In all cases, the materials used inside the package must be clean and of a quality such as to avoid causing any external or internal damage to the produce. The materials must be food grade, so not transfer non-food chemicals to the fresh produce.
Packaging tray liner
A fruit packaging tray liner (insert tray), in accordance with the fruit size, prevents the individual fruits from rolling. This reduces transportation damage. Trays are available as plastic and paper-pulp trays.
Pads
Pads can be used to absorb moisture, for example at the bottom of packages with raspberries. Another function is to absorb shocks to reduce fruit bruising. Other pads are useful to reduce decay, an example is sulphur dioxide pads for grapes. Absorbers for ethylene can be found in packaging of bananas for example.
Use the correct packaging tray liner
Fruit packaging trays are available in various plastic and pulp versions. They should serve to maintain the quality of the fruit. However, a wrong choice of material or incorrect handling can have adverse consequences.
Damage by using incorrect packaging tray liner
Fruit packaging trays are available in various plastic and pulp versions. They should serve to maintain the quality of the fruit. However, a wrong choice of material or incorrect handling can have adverse consequences.