StePacPPC launched modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) films, which is expected to significantly reduce the wastage and transportation cost of fresh mushrooms. As concerns regarding the wastage of fresh vegetables and fruits remain high due to a lack of proper packaging solutions, modified atmosphere packaging solutions will be a game changer for the global fresh food market, which is projected to expand at a value compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%–8% over 2022–27*, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
Priyanka Jain, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Mushrooms have emerged as versatile culinary ingredients, especially among vegetarian consumers, thanks to its umami flavor, meaty texture, and rich nutritional profile. Meanwhile, the growing inclination for fresh & natural trend diet is supporting the demand for fresh vegetables and fruits. However, businesses face a myriad of challenges in packaging and transporting fresh produce, mainly due to poor shelf life. As a result, growers and suppliers are seeking sustainable packaging solutions that can reduce their spoilage during transit.”
Francis Gabriel Godad, Consumer Business Development Manager at GlobalData India, notes: “Despite utilizing temperature-controlled vehicles and cold chain logistics to maintain consistent temperature conditions throughout the transportation process, the wastage remains high. Moreover, as the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, businesses are adopting sustainable practices, particularly in packaging. In a groundbreaking move, industry leaders are recognizing the crucial role of sustainable packaging not only in reducing environmental impact but also in boosting the shelf life of products.”
Jain adds: “Key market players have responded by introducing a range of sustainable packaging offerings. For instance, StePacPPC, the fresh produce packaging provider, introduced sustainable MAP films for the packaging of various whole and sliced mushrooms such as white, shiitake, portabella, and oyster. This film is also expected to protect the texture, flavor, and nutrition of mushrooms during storage by removing excess moisture and slowing the respiration process.”
Godad concludes: “Industry players are working to reduce the usage of virgin plastic in their supply chains by replacing it with sustainable packaging solutions, which will preserve the freshness and nutritional content of fresh produce. However, a game-changing solution to reduce the deterioration of vegetables and fruits altogether remains elusive. With the new technological advancement, manufacturers could offer a safe and commercially viable alternative in the years to come.”
* GlobalData Retail Intelligence Center – Market Analyzers, accessed in January 2024
