New Sealed Air Cryovac packaging gives raw meat significant shelf life boost

The packaging company announced it had developed the innovation for Tanara Giancarlo - an Italian producer of Parma ham.

The packaging encases the entire ham and means the shelf life of the meat has been increased from four to six months thanks to the strong film which incorporates a strong oxygen barrier.

The new substrate also shields the meat from damage through the distribution chain and provides extra opportunities in terms of marketing and printability, said the firm.

Sealed Air said the solution involved developing a highly robust bag that would stand up to the rigours of the supply chain and prevent vacuum leaks – key in ensuring the shelf life extension.

The packaging has been shrunk fit to give a ‘second skin'​ tight fit, said Sealed Air

“The bags effectively protect the contents during and after the transportation,”​ Sealed Air told FoodProductionDaily.com. "Their printability acts as a practical signature for the brand’s identity and associated quality.”​

Customer appeal​

It added the shrink fit ensured “maximum visual appeal, comparable to that of the raw product, with the added advantage of optimal hygiene”.​

The Italian Parma ham player said it is already supplying its newly packaged meat to selected retailers in Italy as well as two in Germany. A full European roll out is scheduled over the coming months.

“The resultant packaging enhances the presentation of our product, giving it vital customer appeal”,​ said Paolo Tanara, president of the Parma-based ham company.