Two innovative new eco-solutions for the packaging industry have just been launched. They are Sormapeel and Sormapaper, both developed by Sorma, global leader in the design and manufacturing of packaging, grading and weighing systems for the fruit and vegetable sector, and they are both destined to revolutionise the fruit and vegetable packaging market.
Specifically, Sormapeel is the original solution inspired by the circular economy that offers real benefits to the entire supply chain, from packer to consumer, through to paper and plastic recyclers. The particularly innovative feature that differentiates Sormapeel is the introduction of a “peel-off” strip of paper from which the solution takes its name. This strip is easily removable by consumers, making the separate recycling of the plastic and paper quick and trouble-free. What's more, this packaging contains, on average, 35% less plastic than the conventional equivalent, and this material is completely recyclable: consisting entirely of PE (high-density polyethylene) or PP (polypropylene), it can be recycled with even greater speed and ease. Moreover, the strip adds strength, allowing the plastic film to be 60% thinner than normal: the paper protects the very thin layer of plastic that makes up the film. Secondly, the incorporation of paper, with FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, means that the packaging is made from 30% renewable raw materials, and thus meets the goals of European regulations (Directive 904/2019). Overall, the resulting pack provides visibility of its contents, breathability and strength, as well as being ultra-lightweight, practical and economical.
Another benefit of Sormapeel is the printable area, which is about twice the standard size. Once the paper layer has been removed, the inner part has a second surface available for communications: for example, for brand storytelling, points for collection, recipes, drawings for colouring, etc. This solution can be applied to all fruit and vegetable packaging machines: therefore, its adoption does not imply any investments to modify or change existing machines.
Alongside the Peel line, Sorma Group offers Sormapaper, the line of 100% paper packaging for fruit and vegetable products, which is therefore completely recyclable, and features an innovative ingredient unlike anything else on the market. In fact, packs incorporate a window made of a cellulose mesh which enables the product inside to “breathe”, prolonging its shelf-life and ensuring excellent visibility.
The Paper line comprises 5 models, all in 100 percent FSC paper: “PaperPillow”, with or without a finger grip, “PaperStandup”, also with or without a handle, and PaperVertbag.
Another key advantage of Sormapaper is the new material’s adaptability to packaging machines: it will be possible to use the paper on Sorma SBU model packaging machines, already widely used, by applying a simple kit. As such, there is no need to purchase special paper processing machines, resulting in significant cost savings.
