DS Smith and Priméale Revolutionize Sustainable Packaging: Replacing Plastic Trays with Innovative Fibre-Based Alternatives

In a groundbreaking initiative to reduce plastic usage in the packaging industry, DS Smith, a leading provider of fibre-based packaging solutions, and Priméale, a subsidiary of the Agrial cooperative group, have collaborated to introduce a fully recyclable, plastic-free punnet for fresh produce. This innovative packaging solution is designed to protect Priméale’s Vegetable Kit range during transportation and on supermarket shelves, addressing growing consumer demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging options.

Sustainable Packaging Solution

The newly developed punnets feature a fibre-based corrugated cardboard tray paired with a cellulose hydrate lid, ensuring environmental sustainability while maintaining the essential functions of product protection and presentation. The transparent cellulose hydrate lid provides excellent product visibility for consumers, making it an attractive option for retail display.

---

Key Features of the New Punnets:

• Fully Recyclable: The packaging is made entirely from recyclable materials, aligning with global efforts to reduce plastic waste.
• Moisture Barrier: A built-in moisture barrier within the corrugated cardboard tray supports direct contact with wet foods, ensuring the produce remains fresh.
• Temperature Control: The punnets are designed to maintain optimal temperatures, preserving the quality of the fresh produce.
• Customizable: The packaging can be tailored to meet various customer needs, with options for small or large sizes.
• Branding Opportunities: The corrugated cardboard exterior offers flexibility for graphic design and brand promotion.

---

Consumer Preferences for Sustainable Packaging

Recent surveys by the Kantar Research Bureau highlight the increasing consumer preference for plastic reduction in packaging. In France, 45% of consumers adhere to strict budgets for weekly shopping, with one in four increasingly in favor of reduced plastic use for fresh food products[1][2][3]. This shift in consumer behavior is driving companies to innovate and adopt more sustainable packaging solutions.

Responding to the Challenge: DS Smith’s Sustainability Strategy

DS Smith is at the forefront of the packaging industry’s transition to a circular economy. The company’s Now & Next sustainability strategy aims to replace problem plastics with renewable fibre-based materials, reduce carbon footprints, and provide recycling solutions. By working with Priméale, DS Smith reinforces its commitment to delivering sustainable and circular packaging solutions that maintain the essential functions of product protection and presentation while meeting consumer demands for environmental sustainability[2][3].

---

DS Smith’s Approach to Sustainability:

• Innovative Designs: Over 1,000 designs have been created to reduce problem plastics in packaging.
• Circular Design Principles: Employed to design out waste and pollution, ensuring packaging materials are recycled or reused multiple times.
• Carbon Footprint Reduction: Focus on taking carbon out of supply chains to minimize environmental impact.
• Recycling Solutions: Providing accessible recycling options for consumers and businesses.
• R&D in Alternative Materials: Significant investments in research and development for new, sustainable materials.

---

Priméale’s Perspective on Sustainable Packaging

Priméale, part of the Agrial cooperative group, is equally committed to sustainability. The launch of the new Vegetable Kit range, packaged in these innovative fibre-based punnets, underscores Priméale’s dedication to combining practicality with environmental responsibility. Christophe Charvieux, Sales and Marketing Director for Priméale France, emphasizes the importance of meeting consumer expectations for both functionality and recyclability, stating that this innovation is a result of joint efforts with DS Smith[1][2].

Impact on the Environment and Consumers

The adoption of fibre-based packaging solutions is expected to have a significant positive impact on the environment. By replacing plastic with renewable materials, DS Smith and Priméale are contributing to reducing plastic waste, which is a major concern for consumers today. This move aligns with global initiatives aimed at reducing plastic use and promoting a circular economy[5].

---

Benefits for Consumers:

• Increased Sustainability: Supports consumer preferences for reduced plastic use.
• Enhanced Product Visibility: The transparent cellulose hydrate lid ensures clear visibility of fresh produce.
• Quality Preservation: Maintains moisture and temperature levels to preserve the freshness of the produce.

Benefits for the Environment:

• Reduced Plastic Waste: Replaces unrecyclable plastic with fully recyclable materials.
• Renewable Sources: Utilizes renewable fibre-based materials.
• Carbon Footprint Reduction: Contributes to lowering carbon emissions across the supply chain.

---

Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for Packaging

The collaboration between DS Smith and Priméale marks a significant step forward in the development of sustainable packaging solutions for the fresh produce sector. As consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly products continue to grow, innovative partnerships like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of packaging, ensuring that it is more environmentally responsible and aligned with consumer values. With the introduction of these fibre-based punnets, DS Smith and Priméale are not only enhancing their commitment to sustainability but also setting a precedent for other companies to follow in their footsteps toward a more circular and environmentally conscious packaging industry.