Packaging the Perfect Puree: Improvements in Fruit Puree Packaging for Food

Food packaging has greatly evolved over the past few decades. Just think about what’s online and in grocery stores: single-serve packaging, flexible containers, and BPA-free bottles and containers. It’s because companies know packaging has the power to completely transform a product, whether that means offering the ability to enjoy favorites on the go or extending a product’s shelf life. Fruit purees are no different. Companies now offer packaging solutions catered to fit consumer needs, rather than the other way around.  Read on to learn more about the new changes in fruit puree packaging.

Why Fruit Puree Packaging Matters

Fruit purees can be used in various applications while cooking at home, from desserts and beverages to sauces and other dishes. They also have a bigger, bolder flavor compared to fresh fruit because the puree process releases fruits’ natural sugars and flavor compounds. However, fruit purees must be stored properly. They’re perishable and prone to contamination if they’re not shielded from contact with moisture, heat, and air. Improvements in fruit puree packaging are essential not only to maintain flavor but also to ensure premium quality and freshness for extended periods.

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Aseptic Packaging

Aseptic packaging has become increasingly prevalent due to its ability to decrease dependency on artificial additives and colors. What is it exactly? Aseptic packaging is a process where fruit puree is heated at a high temperature for a short time and cooled suddenly to prevent bacteria from growing. The packaging is sterilized separately before adding the fruit puree into a sterile environment. This creative packaging offers several benefits:

• Safety – There is no growth of bacteria that could cause foodborne illnesses.
• Premium Freshness – The packaging minimizes exposure to heat and light, which degrade product freshness over time.
• Consistently High Quality – Stringent processing conditions and requirements allow manufacturers to provide the same standards of quality and taste with every batch.
• Bolder Flavor – High-quality fruits are processed quickly at their peak to maintain flavor and quality. 
• Extended Shelf Life – The heat treatment and sterile packaging of aseptic processing not only eliminates contamination but extends the shelf life. These fruit purees can last for up to a year and a half with no refrigeration needed!

Sustainable Packaging

Sustainability has become increasingly popular in food packaging as consumers seek out more earth-friendly products. In a recent study of consumers across ten countries, nearly 70% said they’d pay more for a product in sustainable packaging, and over one-third said they would buy more sustainably packaged products if they were made widely available.

Fruit puree manufacturers have taken heed. Their changes focus on materials that minimize environmental impact throughout its entire lifecycle, from production to disposal. Recyclable packaging is a particularly in-demand option.

Recyclable Pouches

Fruit purees have long been packaged in single-use materials, like aluminum laminate. While these materials ensure food safety and shelf life, they are either impossible or difficult to recycle. Fortunately for conscious consumers, more and more manufacturers are making the transition to recyclable materials. 

Fruit purees are often packaged in a single type of plastic: PP or PE. This makes them easier to recycle than multi-layer packaging that uses a combination of various plastics and materials. Single materials, like PE, are also considered more environmentally friendly than rigid packages, like metal cans and glass, because they require less energy and resources to produce.

BPA-Free Packages and Spouts

BPA is a common chemical typically found in water bottles and plastic food storage containers. But it doesn’t always stay in the plastics. Some research has shown BPA can seep into beverages and food, which includes your fruit puree. Many parents may find this concerning, especially considering that BPA exposure carries possible health effects among infants and children.

More fruit purees can now be found in BPA-free packaging to offer peace of mind for families. Some have even made the spouts on their pouches BPA-free!

Concerned about your environmental footprint? BPA-free containers generally have a lower environmental impact during production compared to traditional plastics. This is because they require less energy and resources to produce, much like recyclable pouches.

Spouted and Resealable Pouches

Pouches are extremely popular with fruit purees because they not only offer superior preservation and shelf life but greater freshness and flavor compared to traditional packaging. It’s all thanks to its vacuum-sealed design that minimizes exposure to light and air. 

Freshness is a big concern for many consumers, especially those with on-the-go lifestyles and those that want to only use some of their puree for things, like homemade preserves. This has led to one big change in flexible packaging: resealable pouches. Zippers and seals allow consumers to use purees as needed without worrying about spoilage or waste.

Spouted pouches and caps are also unique packaging types. They’re practical, convenient, and appeal to a wide range of consumers!

Perfectly Packaged Fruit Puree

Wholesale fruit is only as good as its packaging. From aseptic packaging to resealable pouches, high-quality packaging is a must to ensure you get maximum flavor and versatility in the kitchen. Don’t know which fruit puree packaging is best for your family? Think about your preferences and lifestyle needs. Looking for fruit purees with a longer shelf life and consistent quality? Aseptic packaging may be best for you. Are you seeking a more earth-friendly option? Try recyclable pouches. This will help you get more (more flavor, more freshness, more versatility) from your fruit puree!