Dixie launches food packaging line

In the US, food packaging provider Dixie Foodservice has responded to demands from the growing to-go food market by launching a number of innovative solutions for its new To-Go line.

The To-Go line is a family of five products, which include PerfecTouch Containers, Dixie Stoneware Packaging, Adaptables Packaging, Liddles Portion Cups and Quilt-Rap Bags. Dixie says that this packaging is a direct response to operators' carry-out challenges, such as food temperature retention issues, leaks and spills, and overall food presentation and image.

"As takeout continues to be one of the fastest growing areas of foodservice, Dixie is arming food operators with products that will promote customer satisfaction and ensure the operators' success in the marketplace,"​ a Dixie spokesperson said.

"Fifty-two per cent of prepared meals are to-go, and takeout is expected to be a $161 billion (€151bn) industry this year,"​ said Mike Dunn, vice president, general manager Dixie Foodservice. "As this market increases, so do expectations for operators to deliver superior quality takeout. Operators need to-go packaging that is going to improve efficiency, while upholding and even enhancing the quality of their food, and the image of their operation. The new Dixie To-Go line does just that."​

Dixie says that the development of its To-Go packaging is the culmination of extensive research, which includes trend forecasting, product testing and customer and operator interviews. Through this groundwork, the company says it has been able to understand the evolving needs of food operators in the takeout marketplace, and delivers five To-Go packaging products that directly meet operators' needs.

One of the new packaging concepts, Stoneware, has been designed to enhance the appearance and appeal of to-go packaging. The plate's "classic" look, aims to add greater appeal to the meal. To-Go customers can transport, refrigerate and reheat the meals in a microwave or oven (at low temperatures). The secure fitting lids go on with a Dixie Click, which prevents spills, without a rim. The plates and bowls are also said to be extra strong, cut resistant and soak proof.

Exclusive from Dixie is its PerfecTouch Containers technology, which has now been expanded for the To-Go line, featuring a single-serve container for hot liquid foods. Originally created to transport hot beverages, the new line now allows for food operators to provide customers with the ability to order foods like soup, stew or chili as takeout items. The material technology in the PerfecTouch Containers material keeps containers cool to the touch, while retaining the temperature of the contents within.

Liddles Portion Cups are six small containers attached to make filling, storing and serving sauces and dips easier. Each cup is perforated to easily break apart from the others as needed, promoting quick service. The lids are attached to the cups, reducing the number of operator Stock Keeping Units (SKU), eliminating misplaced lids and resolving ordering issues.

Adaptables Packaging is the first take-away container designed with interchangeable tops and bottoms, aimed at reducing the number of SKU's.

Quilt-Rap Bags feature insulation that maintains desired food temperatures longer than ordinary bags. Quilt-Rap Bags are also leak resistant and sealable, ensuring meals stay in the bag.

Dixie​, a business unit of Georgia-Pacific, is a leading supplier of foodservice disposables in North America.